Broadband carriers are expanding their service in North Carolina to consumers in less populated areas.
North Carolina Gov. Pat McCrory said the expansion is being made possible by the Federal Communications Commission’s Connect America Fund and participation from four broadband service provider partners.
“This is welcome news to families and companies in North Carolina seeking fast and reliable connections to the global economy, educational resources and healthcare services via broadband Internet,” McCrory said. “We look forward to every North Carolinian enjoying the option of high-speed access to the digital world.”
More than $19 million in annual funding during the next six years will help with the buildout of broadband service. AT&T, CenturyLink, Frontier Communications and Windstream Communications will each receive funding to provide service across North Carolina to more than 68,000 businesses and households currently unserved or underserved with broadband. In return, each carrier must meet annual milestones and complete the build-out by the end of 2020.
“Broadband connects North Carolina businesses to customers, suppliers, employees and partners in a way that boosts the competitive position of the entire state,” North Carolina Commerce Secretary John Skvarla said. “It also enhances the ability of governments to serve citizens, educators to teach students, and health providers to treat patients.”