Conexon Connect Marks a Major Milestone with Florida's First Fiber-to-the-Home Network for Rural Broadband

Major Step in Rural Connectivity

Conexon Connect, a leading provider of fiber broadband services, has proudly announced the completion of its first fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) project in Florida. Partnering with the Escambia River Electric Cooperative (EREC), this initiative involved the construction of a 2,000-mile fiber network, significantly enhancing internet access for rural communities in northern Florida. This accomplishment marks the sixth such project across the nation for Conexon Connect, demonstrating its commitment to bridging the digital divide in underserved areas.

With this new network, nearly 12,000 members of the EREC can now enjoy high-speed internet services in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. Prior to this upgrade, many households and businesses in these regions lacked reliable internet connectivity, which is vital for accessing essential services like telemedicine, remote learning, and modern employment opportunities.

Randy Klindt, a founding partner and co-CEO of Conexon, remarked on the importance of this development. "We are excited to bring our innovative solutions to underserved communities across the country. This project exemplifies our mission to ensure that digital access is available to everyone, fostering opportunity and growth in Florida."

Empowering Communities

The newly established fiber network offers multi-gigabit-speed symmetrical internet, allowing users to enjoy fast download and upload speeds. This state-of-the-art technology not only enhances internet access but also enables smart grid capacities for the co-op's electrical infrastructure. This dual benefit is crucial in the quest to modernize community services.

Ryan Campbell, CEO of EREC, spoke highly of the transformation this project brings. "After two years of dedicated work, we can officially say every EREC member has access to reliable internet. This initiative is more than just connectivity; it significantly enriches the quality of life in our community and bolsters economic development, ensuring no residents are left behind in this digital age."

The Bigger Picture of Connectivity

Conexon Connect's impact in Florida reaches beyond just one cooperative. The company collaborates with several electric cooperatives, including Tri-County Electric Cooperative and Glades Electric Cooperative, as well as Central Florida Electric Cooperative and Suwannee Valley Electric Cooperative, which are currently working on similar FTTH projects. Collectively, these initiatives represent an investment surpassing $260 million, with approximately 9,000 miles of fiber infrastructure constructed, benefiting over 70,000 residents across rural Florida.

Jonathan Chambers, co-CEO of Conexon, emphasized the vital role of rural electric cooperatives in expanding broadband services. He stated, "The electric cooperatives are truly dedicated to ensuring broadband reaches every household in rural Florida. They have been serving their communities for more than 85 years, unlike big telecom and cable companies that have overlooked these areas. Our partnership with EREC resulted in a fiber broadband network that will serve the community for decades to come."

About Conexon Connect and EREC

Conexon Connect is an emerging leader in providing fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) broadband service predominantly aimed at rural communities. Utilizing existing infrastructure in partnership with electric cooperatives, Conexon ensures that its networks deliver affordable and dependable high-speed internet to rural residences and businesses. The company's operations span across multiple states including Florida, Colorado, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Missouri.

Founded in 1939, Escambia River Electric Cooperative (EREC) serves around 12,000 residents in northern Florida, committed to providing reliable and affordable electric services. In recent years, EREC has expanded into the broadband sector, demonstrating its dedication to enhancing the quality of life for its members through community-oriented initiatives and essential services like high-speed internet. Through partnerships with providers like Conexon, EREC is taking significant steps towards ensuring all its members benefit from modern connectivity.