Businessman Alonzo Cantu addresses the RGV Broadband Coalition

WESLACO, Texas - Famed businessman Alonzo Cantu has thrown his support behind the work of the Rio Grande Valley Broadband Coalition. The RGVBC unveiled its RGV Broadband and Digital Opportunity Plan at the offices of the Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council. The coalition noted that the Valley still lacks reliable internet access, holding the region back in a world that increasingly depends on digital tools. The coalition says its plan is a “bold initiative to ensure every home, business, and community anchor institution in the region has access to affordable, reliable high-speed internet.”Cantu, president and CEO of Cantu Construction and Development, had a front row seat for the coalition’s presentation. He was seated next to Sergio Contreras, CEO of Atlas, Hall & Rodriguez, LLP., Both Cantu and Contreras are members of the Texas Broadband Development Office’s Board of Advisors.To advance digital development in the region, the RGV Broadband and Digital Opportunity Plan focuses on:Expanding broadband infrastructure to connect unserved and underserved communitiesIncreasing digital skills training to help residents navigate online education, work, and servicesPreparing a local workforce for in-demand, high-wage technology jobsEnhancing tele-health access to improve healthcare outcomes and lower costsSupporting small businesses in adopting digital tools to grow, compete, and better serve their customersJordana Barton-Garcia, director of the RGV Broadband Coalition, said the plan has been developed through a multi-sector partnership of local governments, internet providers, schools, healthcare institutions, small businesses, and nonprofits. She said the plan addresses long-standing connectivity gaps that have limited education, jobs, healthcare access, and economic growth across the region.“Broadband is the foundation for opportunity in today’s economy,” Barton-Garcia said. “This plan represents a turning point, ensuring that all residents — no matter who they are or where in the Rio Grande Valley they live — can access the connectivity they need to thrive.”At the conclusion of the, Barton-Garcia thanked all the stakeholders that had come together to agree on a plan of action. She said the coalition is already working to implement some of the plan’s activities and is actively seeking partners and funding opportunities to put the full plan into action and accelerate digital opportunity efforts.It was at this point that Cantu asked if he could speak.Editor's Note: Go to the Rio Grande Guardian's website to read the full story.Go to www.riograndeguardian.com to read the latest border news stories and watch the latest news videos.