Lauderdale County homes and small businesses are receiving a major upgrade in their internet connection thanks to a new fiber-optic network being installed by Spectrum, a leading broadband connectivity company and cable operator serving over 32 million customers in 41 states.
The project has been made possible through the federal Rural Digital Opportunity Fund, two Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund grants, and Spectrum investment.
At a Spectrum event Wednesday at the Allen Thornton Career Technical Center in Killen, State Sen. Tim Melson, who represents the district, spoke about the importance of reliable broad band access for the the county’s students, particularly those interested in trades.
“Nowadays, with everything from education online to other issues they can look up in the contract business, I think it’s just vital to get internet to all these areas,” said Melson (R-Florence). “It gets their mind going looking at a potential job down the road. It gets them educated on what the potential salary is and all the ins and outs what they do need to do as a base education to get into that field.”
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“I’m excited. It’s a good day for Lauderdale County.”
Melson wasn’t the only local state lawmaker happy with the increased broadband.
Rep. Phillip Pettus called the new internet access a “big win” for the area.
“The state’s hard work to fund broadband projects is paying off in Lauderdale County,” said Pettus. “Spectrum has been hard at work building its network and delivering high-speed internet access to thousands of homes in Lauderdale County.”
Thom Tyrrell, Spectrum Area Vice President, recognized the company’s workers for their role in the installation.
“Our employees are bringing a vital service to Lauderdale County,” said Tyrrell. “We remain committed to rural expansion and are providing these communities superior connectivity at highly competitive prices, backed by a team of skilled local technicians.”
Lauderdale County Commissioner Brad Black touted Spectrum’s continued efforts on the project.
“I’ve been pleased with Spectrum’s diligent work to expand its broadband infrastructure across the county, especially to our most rural and remote residents,” Black said. “I look forward to a continued partnership to help bring high-speed connectivity to each home and business in Lauderdale County and get our communities fully online.”
Spectrum has extended its network more than 530 miles, expanding broadband connectivity to nearly 7,000 residents and small businesses in Lauderdale County, facilitating education, healthcare, and other economic development opportunities.
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.
