Rural and tribal areas in northern Arizona have long struggled to get access to high-speed internet, but new federal funds could help change that.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has allocated $13.5 million in loans and grants to help connect people in Mohave County to affordable high-speed internet.

In a press release Monday, USDA Rural Development Arizona State Director Charlene Fernandez said the funds will benefit 3,043 people, 47 businesses and five educational facilities in Mohave County.

The high-speed internet investments are part of the fourth funding round of the ReConnect Program. It provides money for the costs of construction, improvement, or acquisition of facilities and equipment needed to provide broadband service in eligible rural areas.