#United States #Charlotte #fiber broadband #Brightspeed #Rural Internet

Brightspeed Secures Funding to Expand Fiber Network

In a landmark development for connectivity in rural America, Brightspeed, the nation's third-largest fiber broadband provider, has announced a significant victory. They've been awarded over $222 million from the federal Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program, aimed at expanding their high-speed fiber network across six states: Arkansas, Georgia, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Wisconsin. This funding promises to deliver multi-gig-speed internet access to an additional 73,709 homes and businesses, transforming the digital landscape of these communities.

Brightspeed's Executive Chairman and CEO, Michel Combes, articulated the company's mission from the onset: to revolutionize connectivity for millions of Americans. He stated, “From day one, we set out with an ambitious mission to transform connectivity for millions of Americans across 20 states by building a world-class fiber network in rural and suburban communities left behind by yesterday's providers.” This commitment reflects the urgency and necessity for reliable internet in areas historically underserved by traditional providers.

The BEAD program grant enhances Brightspeed's ongoing multi-billion-dollar project aimed at deploying advanced fiber-optic broadband technology. With this funding, the company aims to enhance its reach to include more than five million homes and businesses over a broad geographical area, thereby dramatically improving internet service availability in rural locales.

Current statistics reveal that Brightspeed’s Fiber Internet service is operational in almost 318,000 homes across Arkansas, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Wisconsin, with thousands more added monthly. Notably, this funding marks the beginning of the firm's fiber network build in Oklahoma, bringing hope to residents eager for reliable internet.

Detailed Breakdown of Funding by State

The allocated funds for each state illustrate Brightspeed's strategic approach:

• - Arkansas: $26,279,777 for 13,791 locations
• - Georgia: $2,265,592 for 1,405 locations
• - Oklahoma: $1,893,595 for 148 locations
• - Pennsylvania: $40,112,441 for 9,126 locations
• - Virginia: $16,661,198 for 4,963 locations
• - Wisconsin: $134,953,282 for 44,276 locations

Pamela Sherwood, Brightspeed’s Vice President of Broadband Office, emphasized the importance of fast, reliable internet, stating “For families and business owners, fast, affordable, and reliable internet isn't a luxury, it's a lifeline.” She explained that the expansion not only broadens access but also catalyzes economic growth through enhanced opportunities for work, education, and health care.

Recognizing the critical nature of broadband in the modern world, Brightspeed has also benefitted from over $8.1 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds in states like Arkansas, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Wisconsin. This contribution supplements the company’s $15.5 million investment and is poised to impact more than 9,000 Americans currently lacking efficient internet access.

Brightspeed continues its pursuit of additional state and federal grants to expand its services further. With plans to secure more BEAD funding, the company aims to widen its footprint and enhance connectivity for even more communities.

As Brightspeed forges ahead, it reinforces an essential narrative: reliable internet is no longer an optional enhancement but a vital resource for modern life. The initiatives propelled by the BEAD program distribute not just technology but unleash the potential for growth, innovation, and community resilience among underserved populations. With nearly 4,000 dedicated employees, Brightspeed is poised to carry forth its mission of building a future where connectivity is accessible to every American, transforming both personal and community landscapes significantly.

For more information about Brightspeed’s initiatives and fiber services, visit Brightspeed.