#United States #Charlotte #Broadband #BEAD Program #Brightspeed

Brightspeed Secures Major Federal Funding for Fiber Internet Expansion

Brightspeed, the third-largest fiber broadband provider in the United States, has made waves with its recent announcement that it has been awarded an impressive $528 million through the federal Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program. This funding, which spans 17 states, is set to revolutionize the internet landscape for families and businesses, particularly in underserved rural communities. With this backing, Brightspeed aims to significantly extend its high-speed fiber network, reaching 182,900 additional locations.

A New Era of Connectivity

The latest recipients of BEAD program funding include Alabama, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio, and South Carolina. Together, these states will receive a total of $181 million, allowing Brightspeed to connect nearly 91,000 homes and businesses with its advanced Brightspeed Fiber Internet. According to Michel Combes, Executive Chairman and CEO of Brightspeed, this investment is about more than just infrastructure; it's about transforming the lives of individuals and communities.

"Every mile we build opens up new possibilities for students who can learn without barriers, small businesses that can prosper in a digital economy, and families who can access healthcare and stay connected with loved ones," Combes stated.

This funding underscores Brightspeed's dedication to bridging the digital divide that has hindered many communities from accessing high-quality internet services, a critical resource in today’s connected world.

Expansion Plans and Previous Investments

In addition to this recent BEAD funding, Brightspeed is currently investing billions of dollars to deploy next-generation fiber to over five million homes across 20 states. The company’s fiber network already serves more than 2.5 million locations and continues to expand at an impressive pace, newly lighting up thousands of addresses each month.

The breakdown of funds awarded per state reveals the significant impact this program will have:

• - Alabama: $14.3 million for 4,417 locations
• - Illinois: $3.2 million for 1,201 locations
• - Indiana: $24.5 million for 9,203 locations
• - Michigan: $19.7 million for 8,746 locations
• - Missouri: $117.3 million for 61,743 locations
• - Ohio: $16.2 million for 5,424 locations
• - South Carolina: $10,400 for 118 locations

These investments are complemented by nearly $294.6 million from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), awarded to Brightspeed across several states, enabling further enhancement of broadband infrastructure.

Focus on Community Impact

Pamela Sherwood, Vice President of Brightspeed Broadband, emphasized the human element of these investments. "With support from federal and state subsidies, we are delivering transformative connections to families who have waited too long for reliable internet. This funding empowers us to provide local economies with the necessary tools for growth, thereby bolstering small businesses, strengthening educational institutions, and ensuring communities thrive in an increasingly digital environment,” she said.

As Brightspeed embarks on this ambitious journey, they strive to uphold their promise of enhancing connectivity for millions of Americans, paving the way for a brighter, more connected future.

Conclusion

Overall, Brightspeed's substantial funding through the BEAD program epitomizes a commitment to enhancing broadband access for underserved communities. With their continued efforts in expanding the fiber network, they are poised to make a lasting impact on the social and economic fabric of rural America. By prioritizing high-speed internet accessibility for families and businesses, Brightspeed is championing a digital revolution that seeks to empower every individual in the modern age.