Hidalgo County is shutting down a free Wi-Fi program for rural areas that started in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The program helped people stay connected, but Hidalgo County officials say the free service is coming to an end because office spaces and classrooms are back to normal.

“The pandemic has now ended. The funding that once was available is also ended,” Hidalgo County Judge Richard Cortez said. “So now, in order for us to sustain it, we would have to use taxpayer funds."

Cortez said that funding was the driving factor in the county's decision.

“Having access to that service was very important for that period of time. So I’m glad that those funds were available at the time that they were, and I’m sorry that they're not available now for us to continue,” Cortez said.

Cortez said those in need of free Wi-Fi can use libraries and other public areas.

“It just won't be in the convenience of their home,” Cortez said.

The county service will officially come to an end by the end of 2025.

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