Torrance County residents and businesses will gain access to high-speed internet as part of a $22 million federal investment announced Friday by New Mexico’s congressional delegation.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture funding will expand broadband service to Torrance County, along with Socorro and Valencia counties, reaching a combined 783 people, 14 businesses and 40 farms across the three-county region.
For Torrance County, located in central New Mexico with a population of about 15,000, the internet expansion addresses a critical infrastructure gap that has limited economic opportunities and access to essential services.
The funding comes through USDA’s Rural Development program, which provides financial assistance to support economic development in rural communities.
Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández, D-N.M., whose district includes Torrance County, emphasized that broadband access has become essential infrastructure for rural communities.
“High-speed broadband isn’t a luxury anymore – it’s a necessity,” Leger Fernández said. “This funding will help New Mexicans more easily access educational opportunities, run their businesses, and manage their farms.”
U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., said the investment will help rural residents overcome barriers to opportunity by connecting them to career options and enabling local businesses and farmers to expand their online presence.
“This funding will help lower barriers to opportunity — connecting New Mexicans to careers they can build their families around, helping local small business owners and farmers boost their sales online,” Heinrich said.
Torrance County, with communities including Estancia, Moriarty and Mountainair, has struggled with limited internet connectivity that affects everything from distance learning to telemedicine access.
Sen. Ben Ray Luján, D-N.M., called the investment crucial for ensuring rural communities can compete economically.
“I’m proud to welcome $22 million to connect families, businesses, and farms in Socorro, Torrance and Valencia Counties to reliable high-speed internet — opening doors to education, health care, and job opportunities,” Luján said in a press release. “This investment will strengthen local economies and expand opportunities for families. It’s a step forward in ensuring that every New Mexican community can compete and succeed in today’s world.”
Rep. Melanie Stansbury added that expanding service in Torrance County will prevent rural communities from being left behind.
“Connecting our neighbors to high-speed internet ensures no one is left behind and will bring new jobs and opportunities to New Mexicans,” she said.
Rep. Gabe Vasquez said the expansion will change lives.
“By gaining access to high-speed internet, folks will be able to unlock game-changing new opportunities in business, education, health care and more,” he said.
