The State of Texas Awards Over $14 Million to Expand Broadband Connectivity in Marion County

JEFFERSON, Texas (April 28, 2025) – Marion County will gain improved high-speed broadband access thanks to a $14.45 million state grant secured by Lyte Fiber, LLC (“Lyte”).

The Texas-based company plans to install 280 miles of 100 percent fiber infrastructure and invest an additional $5 million of its own funds to expand fast and reliable internet service to 2,253 locations across Marion County. On top of this investment, Lyte is privately funding a nearly $2 million fiber network buildout within the City of Jefferson, bringing Lyte’s total privately funded investment in Marion County to $7 million.

“Broadband is the backbone of a thriving community,” said Greg Conte, Director of the Texas Broadband Development Office, which administers broadband funding. “This investment fuels economic growth, expands educational opportunities, and strengthens healthcare access – bringing Marion County into the digital age.”

The grant is part of the State’s Bringing Online Opportunities to Texas (BOOT) II program, which aims to expand broadband service to over 95,000 unserved and underserved locations. This initiative marks a historic investment in rural infrastructure in Texas, guaranteeing that businesses, schools, healthcare providers, and families receive essential digital access.

“Reliable, high-speed broadband isn’t a luxury – it’s necessary for our businesses, schools, and families. Thanks to this nearly $20 million project, we’re closing the digital divide and opening new doors of opportunity for Marion County residents,” said County Judge Leward LeFleur.

Carter Old, CEO of Lyte Fiber, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to helping transform Marion County through broadband expansion.

“We’re incredibly grateful for this partnership, which enables Lyte Fiber to expand its high-speed, fiber-optic internet network across Marion County,” Old said. “The State’s support empowers us to bridge the digital divide, delivering fast, reliable, and affordable internet to homes and businesses that have been underserved for too long. It’s a transformative opportunity for the region.”

Lyte Fiber prioritizes transparency, with lifetime reliability guarantees, no pricing games or gimmicks, no contracts, and lifetime pricing in most of its residential plans. Lyte is also committed to providing exceptional customer and technical support directly from its Texas-based customer service and network operations center.

Lyte Fiber’s commitment to communities goes beyond unmatched performance and customer support, including a 1 percent annual giveback pledge within its market territories.

All of Marion County will be serviced from Lyte Fiber’s regional office located in nearby Marshall, Texas and will utilize local talent from the East Texas region.

Deployment will begin this year, and service will roll out in phases. Residents and businesses can visit www.lytefiber.com or call 888-GET-LYTE (888-438-5983) for updates on availability.

# # #

About Lyte Fiber

Founded in 2023 in Houston, Texas, Lyte Fiber, LLC is dedicated to providing the fastest and most reliable home and business fiber optic internet to communities across Texas and beyond. Formed in partnership with SDC Capital Partners, a leading digital infrastructure investment firm, Lyte Fiber was started by internet industry veterans passionate about offering a best-in-class customer experience, building a great workplace, and connecting Texas communities. As part of its commitment to each community it serves, Lyte Fiber pledges a 1 percent giveback to local charities and causes annually. For more information, visit www.lytefiber.com.