Bay Springs, Mississippi (September 23, 2024) - TEC, a leading provider of rural broadband services, has completed construction on a project spanning over 150 miles, expanding high-speed broadband access to roughly 1,500 households and businesses. This project is made possible through an estimated $6.2 million investment by TEC and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) within the Department of Commerce. This allotment funds a major improvement in Smith County's broadband capability.
“This tremendous investment into Smith County will improve connectivity and better the lives of every resident that it impacts,” said Governor Tate Reeves.
TEC’s goal is to bridge the digital divide by providing a reliable, high-speed internet option that positively impacts the communities it serves. With Fast Fiber Internet from TEC, residents can take advantage of convenient work-from-home opportunities, digital learning, appointments with physicians via telemedicine, and video streaming services.
"Our growth in fiber infrastructure is more than just an upgrade—it's a catalyst for economic development in the communities we serve," said Joey F. Garner, CEO of TEC. "Seeing the positive impact on local businesses and families is what drives us forward."
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The project spans 150 miles providing fiber infrastructure to connect roughly 1,500 customers to Fast Fiber Internet, providing symmetrical Gigabit speeds, and phone services to the Smith County communities. This level of connection gives 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.
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.