$15.2M broadband boost to connect 900 rural Wasco County homes, expand remote work, education access
Investment will bring fiber internet to over 900 homes and businesses in Wasco County
The Dalles, Ore., Feb. 12, 2026 — QLife Network has been awarded a $15.2 million federal grant to expand high-speed fiber internet service to 924 homes and businesses in Northern Wasco County.
For residents in rural pockets west and southwest of The Dalles — where internet speeds can lag or service can be unreliable — the investment means faster connections for remote work, online classes, telehealth appointments and farm operations that increasingly depend on digital tools. For small businesses, it could mean the difference between competing online or falling behind.
The funding comes through the federal Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment program, known as BEAD, and is part of Oregon’s newly approved final proposal authorized by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration. QLife is one of 19 awardees selected statewide to help expand broadband to areas lacking reliable service.
Under the grant, QLife will install more than 30 miles of fiber broadband over the next four years, beginning in rural and unincorporated areas near Chenoweth Creek, Cherry Heights and Browns Creek. The expansion will also reach upland areas between The Dalles and Mosier, along with select homes and businesses along the Columbia River east of The Dalles.
The total project investment is approximately $20 million, including a required local match of about $5 million. The funding will cover engineering, permitting, materials, construction and final deployment. The project is expected to support about 20 jobs.
Liz Lance
“This is a defining moment for our community,” said Liz Lance, executive director of QLife Network. “For too long, rural families, farms, and small businesses have been left behind without reliable high-speed internet. This investment allows us to deliver the high-speed internet access they have long deserved.”
The BEAD program, funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, represents the largest broadband investment in Oregon’s history. Statewide, the initiative is expected to connect more than 104,000 unserved and underserved households, healthcare facilities and businesses across 36 counties and seven tribal communities.
“This project strengthens the foundation of our local economy,” said Lee Weinstein, QLife board president. “Reliable broadband supports students, small businesses, healthcare providers and public safety. This investment positions Wasco County for long-term opportunity.”
QLife officials said the organization will provide updates as the project moves through contracting, permitting and construction planning, with additional information to be shared as deployment timelines and service availability are finalized.
QLife Network, founded in 2001, operates a public high-speed fiber optic network serving residents, businesses, schools and public agencies throughout the Mid-Columbia region. More information is available at qlife.net.
