Governor announces major rural broadband expansion project

From the West Alabama Newsroom–

Governor Kay Ivey announced a major broadband expansion project Monday morning — in her hometown of Camden.

The effort to make broadband more accessible in rural communities — is about to take a huge leap forward.

State, local and federal officials were on hand — as Governor Ivey announced $188 million dollars in grants to expand high-speed internet in rural Alabama.

“Broadband access is critical for everybody in the 21st century to be truly well-connected,” said Ivey.

A dozen internet service providers were awarded grants to install thousands of miles of “middle-mile” infrastructure connecting more than 790 anchor institutions in rural areas around the state.

Middle mile projects help fill the gaps in broadband access by making it easier to provide services — to unserved areas.

“This will lower the cost to the households and businesses when broadband reaches the last mile. So, that’s crucial, said State Rep. Randall Shedd.

“We were able to take and have the plans in place, have mapping in place, that way when those federal funds did come down, we accessed them to the maximum potential,” said ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell.

The funding came from the state’s share of American Rescue Plan Act Funds.

“It’s a trillion dollars worth of money,” said Congresswoman Terri Sewell.

“And Alabama will get billions for roads and bridges. And over $100 million and close to $1.4 billion for broadband.”

“It’s a necessity in today’s life,” said State Sen. Donnie Chesteen.