Erin, Tennessee (October 17, 2022) --- TEC, a leading provider of fiber internet to rural communities in the Southeast, has been awarded a project to expand Fast Fiber Internet infrastructure in Henry, Benton, and Carroll counties in Tennessee. This venture will expand coverage in parts of these communities for an estimated total cost of $6.2 million. Funding for the project is provided by the Tennessee Emergency Broadband Fund – American Rescue Plan (TEBF-ARP), which utilizes a portion of the state’s federal American Rescue Plan funds to address the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic to aid in efforts toward a strong recovery. Tennessee’s Fiscal Stimulus Accountability Group (FSAG) dedicated $500 million from this program to broadband funding, with more than $446 million going to infrastructure improvements.
“Henry County is proud of our partnership receiving funding with TEC to provide broadband to residents of Southern Henry County,” says John Penn Ridgeway, Henry County Mayor. “We look forward to TEC providing reliable broadband services at a reasonable price. These services will enable our residents to work from home, perform schoolwork, and enjoy other benefits that reliable internet service provides today,” John Penn Ridgeway, Henry County Mayor.
TEC’s goal is to bridge the digital divide by providing a reliable, high-speed internet option that has a lasting, positive impact on the communities it serves. With Fast Fiber Internet from TEC, residents can take advantage of technology that allows for work-from-home opportunities, remote education, appointments with physicians via telemedicine, and video streaming services.
Joey Garner, President and CEO of TEC says, “We are honored to receive this project award from the Tennessee Emergency Broadband Fund. This grant assists TEC in our commitment to improving the communities we serve, bringing increased fiber internet options to more areas in rural Tennessee. We are excited to begin construction and get more people connected."
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The project covers an estimated 100 miles and connects over 1,000 residential and business customers to Fast Fiber Internet, providing symmetrical Gigabit speeds and home phone services to parts of the Benton, Carroll, and Henry County communities. These connections give the best online experience for streamers, gamers, social media users, and families with multiple users at home. Those interested in signing up for service can visit www.TEC.com/SignUp to complete a short form.