DECATUR, Miss. (June 14, 2021) --- TEC, a leading rural broadband provider, attended the Newton County Board of Supervisors meeting on June 6 to discuss a project that will make high-speed internet access a reality for many in the area. In 2023 and 2024, TEC will be investing over $14 million in Newton County. This project will include 325 miles of fiber construction and will connect 3200 homes and businesses in Newton county.
TEC also identified additional underserved areas in Newton county and proposed that the county utilize a portion of the Coronavirus Fiscal Recovery Fund more than $4 million that has been allocated to the county for broadband expansion.
Joey F. Garner, TEC Executive Vice President, and Lisa Wigington, TEC Vice President of Strategic Operations, presented the proposal to the Board of Supervisors.
“The Coronavirus Fiscal Recovery Fund has allocated $120.2 billion directly to counties for local infrastructure expenses related to the pandemic and specifically suggested broadband as an acceptable expenditure,” said Garner. “TEC provides rural communities a reliable, and affordable internet solution, which is crucial in online education, telemedicine, working from home and entertainment purposes. This expansion of services will make many of life’s daily tasks easier, as well as harness advantages that create a positive landscape for economic growth.”
The proposed project would include constructing 325 miles of fiber, with the total estimated cost of just approximately $3.7 million, and would provide over 600 additional locations in Newton County with high-speed internet.
Along with this proposal in Newton County, TEC is seeking other collaborative efforts across the region, including state funding, to increase the availability of broadband.