Grants awarded to expand internet access
Published on Wednesday, February 7, 2024 at 11:55 AM
Governor Kay Ivey announced more than $188 million to continue expanding high-speed internet access in Alabama.
Grants totaling $188,453,905 were awarded to 12 internet service providers to install “Middle Mile” projects spanning more than 4,000 miles across Alabama. Middle Mile projects help close the broadband expansion gap, making it more economically viable and less labor-intensive for providers to extend service to unserved businesses and households in the state.
Governor Ivey announced grants from the Alabama Anchor Institute/Middle Mile Grant Program this week in her hometown of Camden. The area where the Middle Mile project in Alabama will be completed also includes Wilcox County and other rural counties.
“Like many other parts of Alabama, rural Alabama needs increased access to high-speed internet, and we are now making great strides toward full broadband access,” said Governor Ivey. Ta. “These middle-mile projects are extremely beneficial to our core institutions and put us in a desirable situation where ‘last-mile’ projects that provide broadband services to businesses and homes are more economical and achievable. I will guide you.”
Anchor facilities include schools, hospitals, medical facilities, and government and public safety buildings. Many are located on or near the Middle Mile line, and more than 790 will be served by the project.
“In the 21st century, access to affordable, high-speed internet is not a luxury, but a necessity, and one that many Alabamians have been missing for far too long,” said Rep. Sewell. “I am thrilled to be able to help make this funding available through the American Rescue Plan and commend Governor Ivey and Commissioner Boswell for making these investments. We will continue to work hard to ensure delivery to all.”
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs will administer this program through the Alabama Department of Digital Extension. This department was established by the Alabama Legislature and Governor Ivey to focus on expanding high-speed internet in the state.
“ADECA is pleased to be part of this broadband expansion effort that will benefit and improve the lives of so many people,” said ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell. “I would like to thank Governor Ivey and the Alabama Legislature for their confidence in entrusting ADECA with this vital program.”
Funding for the newest Middle Mile program came from Congressional appropriations from the state’s American Rescue Plan Act Fund.
JMF Solutions connects the Middle Mile to 1,169 miles of routes in Bibb, Choctaw, Clark, Clay-Conecuh, Dallas, Escambia, Greene, Lowndes, Macon, Monroe, Randolph, and Washington Counties $6.3 million was awarded for four projects that will deliver. This project will impact 24 anchor institutions.
