Bay Springs, Mississippi (March 30, 2023) - TEC, a leading provider of fiber internet to rural communities in the Southeast, is in the process of breaking ground on a project that will expand high-speed broadband access within Smith County. Once completed, this project will connect more than 1,700 customers by expanding Gigabit-speed coverage by an estimated 150 miles. This project will be possible through an estimated $6.2 million investment by TEC and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration within the Department of Commerce. This allotment will fund a major improvement in Smith County's broadband capability.
“We were glad to partner with TEC to help secure this grant for Mississippi. We know how important broadband access is to economic development in our state and that’s why my administration has placed a priority on expanding it to all corners of Mississippi,” said Governor Tate Reeves. “This tremendous investment into Smith County will improve connectivity and better the lives of every resident that it impacts.”
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.
"The mission of TEC has always been to help create more connection for our customers, especially in rural communities," said CEO Joey Garner. "We are thrilled to take on this project that will improve internet access and speed for the people of Smith County."
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The completed project will construct approximately 150 miles of fiber infrastructure and will be able to connect over 1,700 customers to Fast Fiber Internet, providing symmetrical Gigabit speeds, home security, 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 200 people across Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Louisiana. To date, TEC has invested in and currently maintains approximately 2,000 miles of fiber in its rural markets. For 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 via social media @TECconnects.