Paris, Tennessee (September 25, 2024) – The Paris Board of Public Utilities (Paris BPU) and TEC are excited to announce a groundbreaking public-private partnership to build a state-of-the-art fiber network. This initiative aims to support grid modernization and provide high-speed broadband services to the Greater Paris Municipal area.
The new fiber optic network will enhance the electric, water, and wastewater systems by providing a more robust ability to monitor and control critical functions throughout the service area. Paris BPU infrastructure will become more efficient, resilient, and ready to meet the needs of the community. Additionally, the network will offer high-speed internet access to residents and businesses, bridging the digital divide and fostering local economic growth. This partnership allows the utility to invest in necessary infrastructure and the community without financial impact to the ratepayers.
"We are thrilled to partner with TEC on this transformative project," said Terry Wimberley, CEO of Paris Board of Public Utilities. "This fiber network will not only modernize our grid but also provide our community with the high-speed internet access they need to thrive in today's digital world."
TEC will handle the planning, design, construction, and project management of the fiber network, leveraging their expertise and resources to ensure a successful deployment. The Paris BPU will own the existing and future fiber infrastructure, while TEC will be the internet service provider for customers connected to the network.
“This partnership represents a significant investment in the future of Paris,” said Joey Garner, CEO of TEC. “We are committed to delivering a high-quality fiber network that will support the needs of the community and drive economic development."
The project is expected to be completed within 24 months, with construction set to begin in March 2025. Residents and businesses in the Greater Paris Municipal area can look forward to improved utility services and access to high-speed internet in the near future.
ABOUT TEC
TEC provides economic stability to its local service areas, employing more than 200 people across Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Louisiana. TEC has invested in and maintains approximately 3,600 miles of fiber in its rural markets. For over a century, TEC has been a forerunner in providing telecommunications services to rural America and was the first to bring internet options to many rural markets more than 20 years ago. For more information, visit www.TEC.com or find us on social media under the handle, @TECconnects.
TEC Contact: Scott Pell, Vice President, Operations - 256.508.9230 / [email protected]
ABOUT PARIS BPU
Established in 1938, Paris BPU is a municipal utility authority that provides electric, water and wastewater services to residents of Henry County as a means of promoting economic development and enhancing quality of life in the community. Serving over 22,000 homes and businesses, Paris BPU strives to provide reliable, safe and affordable services to our community.