Joey Garner
Erin,TN — Holladay and Sugar Tree are the next areas to begin enjoying the benefits of TEC’s new fiber optic broadband network. Crews have begun installing fiber optic cable on Hwy 641, and TEC plans to complete the construction in early December. The total cost of this project is $1,471,000 and is being funded by a grant in the amount of $1,103,250 from the Tennessee Emergency Broadband Fund. TEC will contribute the additional funding in the amount of $367,750
“Broadband is more important now than ever, and we are one step closer to offering our customers the same life-changing technology that is typically only available in large urban cities,” says TEC Executive Vice President Joey Garner. “When completed, our customers will have access to dependable, fast fiber internet speeds rivaled by none.”
Garner acknowledges that TEC’s fiber deployment plan is a challenge, but the company is dedicated to providing increased internet access and opportunities to their residential and business customers served in Tennessee.
“Nothing worthwhile is easy,” she says. “We are committed to providing the community with this state-of-the-art technology. Our efforts to keep people connected with fiber internet will have an incredibly positive impact on our friends and neighbors here in Tennessee.”
Fiber optic broadband is a future-proof technology that increases property values and improves the quality of life. Fiber broadband means better access to health care through telemedicine, more educational opportunities through distance learning, increased opportunities for economic development, and of course a better video streaming and gaming experience. The potential is unlimited.
When completed, the project will connect 376 homes and include about 17 square miles. Additionally, TEC will be donating two laptops to the Holladay/McIllwain Volunteer Fire for public access in their building, as well as, committing to providing a public access outdoor WI-FI hotspot at the building for the community.
“It is abundantly clear to everyone that in order to effectively engage in online or distant learning provided by our schools, or operate a business, or simply communicate with others in your community - you must have high speed internet broadband. It is critical infrastructure for everyone today just like electricity was for folks back in the 1930’s. I am extremely pleased more political leaders are beginning to realize just how important broadband is and are willing to provide grant resources towards this valuable service - especially for rural America and rural Tennessee,” states Bruce Griffey, Tennessee House of Representatives 75th District.
“I congratulate TEC on being awarded a 1.4 million dollar broadband grant for Benton County,” he said. “I hope this is the first of many grants for TEC and other broadband providers so that every Tennessean has access to high speed internet broadband in their home or place of business. Thank you, TEC, for your commitment to the wonderful folks in Benton County who I care deeply about.”