Bay Springs, Miss (June 28, 2021) --- TEC, a leading provider of fiber internet to rural communities, has broken ground on their newest expansion in Raleigh. This project marks the beginning of an estimated $96 million investment to provide high-speed broadband access in central Mississippi, which TEC expects to complete over the next six years. The total project will provide Fast Fiber Internet access to more than 23,000 families and businesses in rural Mississippi, allowing access to such services as distance education and telemedicine. TEC was one of 386 competing companies in the November 2020, Federal Communications Commission (FCC) auction, which awarded $9 billion for the provision of broadband internet to unserved and underserved areas throughout the United States. TEC, with the assistance of the FCC, will be funding to build and deliver broadband access to Copiah, Covington, Jasper, Lawrence, Lincoln, Newton, Rankin, Scott, Simpson, and Smith counties.
“With technology constantly improving, cattlemen who do not have access to reliable broadband service will fall behind,” states Mississippi Cattleman’s Association (MCA) President Clint Ladner, a cattle rancher from West Point, MS. “As new technology becomes available for ranchers, farmers, and rural communities’ broadband will become as important as electrical or water service. Many people in rural Mississippi rely on cellular hotspots, which can vary widely on availability and affordability. We are certainly excited to see the partnership between TEC and Southern Pine and their commitment to expand broadband to rural Mississippi communities."
Reliable fiber internet connections can contribute to an improved quality of life through telemedicine, distance learning, and work from home options. Additionally, high-speed broadband can provide personal enjoyment, such as streaming videos or gaming.
“This expansion project is another vital piece of the puzzle in our efforts to expand our service across central Mississippi,” said Lisa Wigington, TEC Vice President of Strategic Operations. “Our aggressive goals for growth, paired with these innovative funding programs from the FCC, are truly changing the landscape for connectivity in Mississippi and across the country. We are excited to complete this portion of expansion in Raleigh and are pleased to have the opportunity to serve more customers in the area.”
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The current project will construct approximately 50 miles of fiber and can connect over 500 residential and business customers to Fast Fiber Internet, providing symmetrical Gigabit speeds, home security, and phone services to the Raleigh community. 1 Gig internet connections give the best online experience for streamers, gamers, social media users, and families with multiple users at home. If you are interested in signing up for service, go to www.TEC.com/SignUp to complete a quick form.