A Citywide Turnaround
Once ranked the worst-connected city of its size, Pharr, Texas, has transformed into a national model for broadband success in just 18 months. Through its municipal service TeamPharr.Net, powered by Calix’s broadband platform, the city now delivers fast, affordable internet along with advanced managed services that strengthen education, business, and community life.
Building a Connected Future
Pharr invested in the full Calix broadband platform, including Intelligent Access EDGE™, Revenue EDGE™, and Calix Cloud®. This enabled the city to:
- Build 80% of its network and launch managed Wi-Fi in under two years.
- Provide cybersecurity protection (ProtectIQ®) and advanced parental controls (ExperienceIQ®) to families.
- Deliver internet services through the TeamPharr.Net mobile app, available in English and Spanish, ensuring accessibility for the city’s predominantly Hispanic population.
Supporting Families and Students
With help from the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), TeamPharr.Net covers the full cost of internet for thousands of qualifying student households. This ensures that children can learn without barriers, even in historically underserved neighborhoods.
Expanding Beyond Basic Connectivity
Pharr is also looking to the future with plans to expand managed services:
- SmartTown™ for community-wide Wi-Fi.
- SmartBiz™ solutions to support small businesses.
- Potential adoption of Bark for social media monitoring and online safety.
Recognition and Awards
The city’s transformation has earned national accolades, including:
- Smart 50 Award for most transformative smart project of the year.
- Community Economic Development Award from the Texas Economic Development Council.
A Model for Other Cities
Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez emphasizes why Pharr embraced broadband as a utility:
“The most sustainable solution was for us to take on broadband as a utility. That has allowed us to control the quality, reliability, and affordability of Wi-Fi services for residents. Thanks to Calix, we are creating a connected community with enhanced opportunities.”
Beyond Connectivity
With Calix tools like Marketing Cloud and Market Activation programs, Pharr is accelerating adoption, engaging residents and businesses, and ensuring that broadband delivers long-term social and economic value across the Rio Grande Valley.
