Verizon to expand high-speed broadband to rural households in Bedford County

Rhea-AI Summary

Verizon is set to expand high-speed broadband services to approximately 349 addresses in rural Bedford County, Virginia, after receiving approval from the County Board of Supervisors. The project, financed with American Rescue Plan funds, aims to close the digital divide by making broadband accessible to previously unserved areas. Expected completion is by spring 2024. Verizon's commitment to expanding broadband aligns with its goal of enhancing connectivity in underserved regions, reflecting ongoing efforts to provide economic benefits and reliable internet services to customers.

Positive

• Expansion of broadband to 349 addresses in rural Bedford County.
• Project is financed through American Rescue Plan funds, ensuring quicker implementation.
• Expected completion by spring 2024, enhancing access to high-speed internet.

Negative

• None.

NEW YORK, March 23, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- To bring high speed internet to rural communities in Bedford County, Virginia, Verizon will expand its all-fiber, high-speed broadband services to approximately 349 addresses in the Big Island and Wheats Valley areas.

In January, the Board of Supervisors gave its approval for the County Administrator to execute a contract with Verizon for this expansion. The 12 months project would bring broadband to these addresses by spring 2024.

Located in one of Bedford County’s broadband coverage gaps, these locations were not connected during a 2019 Virginia Telecommunication Initiative (VATI) project and are not identified for any other publicly funded broadband project.

“Verizon is focused on delivering broadband service, and the economic benefits associated with it, for our customers and employees in Central Virginia,” said Kwame Trotman, Vice President of Wireline Network Operations-Mid-Atlantic South Region for Verizon. “We are pleased to work with Bedford County to achieve our common goal of increasing broadband access for unserved and underserved areas in the State. This project will significantly help to close the digital divide in that region.”

To bring broadband to residents quicker, county officials made a proactive choice to finance the project directly with American Rescue Plan funds versus applying for another VATI grant for these locations.

“The Bedford County Board of Supervisors has a continued commitment to working with multiple partners to bring broadband to all areas of Bedford County,” said Edgar Tuck, Chair of the Bedford County Board of Supervisors. “We are very appreciative of Verizon’s commitment to delivering quality service to our residents in this area.”

“We applaud the Bedford County Board of Supervisors and the County’s professional staff for their leadership in establishing this robust broadband program in Central Virginia,” said Thomas Walls, Director - Virginia State & Local Government Affairs at Verizon. “This partnership will expand high-speed broadband access to many residents and will better connect our communities.”

In an effort to provide connectivity to families in need across the country, Verizon participates in the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)¹ a U.S. government program run by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to help low-income households pay for internet service. With ACP eligibility and the Verizon Forward Program², customers can get free home internet service – no hidden fees or annual contracts, and no equipment charges or data caps. You are eligible for ACP if you (or someone in your household) participate in certain government assistance programs. Learn more about the Verizon Forward Program by visiting www.verizon.com/home/free-verizon-internet/.

1. Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP): ACP is a government program providing eligible households with internet service discounts. One program discount per household. Discount expires upon FCC’s termination of program; then our standard rates and service terms and conditions apply.
2. Limited-time offer for eligible residential customers with ACP applied to a Fios Mix & Match internet plan. Discounts may vary. May not combine with all offers. Fios Mix & Match available in select areas.

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) was formed on June 30, 2000 and is one of the world’s leading providers of technology and communications services. Headquartered in New York City and with a presence around the world, Verizon generated revenues of $136.8 billion in 2022. The company offers data, video and voice services and solutions on its award-winning networks and platforms, delivering on customers’ demand for mobility, reliable network connectivity, security and control.

VERIZON’S ONLINE MEDIA CENTER: News releases, stories, media contacts and other resources are available at verizon.com/news. News releases are also available through an RSS feed. To subscribe, visit www.verizon.com/about/rss-feeds/.

Media contact:
Ilya Hemlin
908.227.0536
Ilya.hemlin@verizon.com

FAQ

What is Verizon's broadband expansion project in Bedford County, Virginia?

Verizon is expanding its high-speed broadband services to 349 addresses in Bedford County, Virginia, with project completion expected by spring 2024.

When will the broadband services be available in Bedford County?

The broadband services are expected to be available by spring 2024.

How is the Bedford County broadband project being financed?

The project is financed through American Rescue Plan funds rather than applying for a VATI grant.

What community areas are impacted by the Verizon broadband expansion in Bedford?

The expansion will impact the Big Island and Wheats Valley areas in Bedford County.

What is the purpose of Verizon's Affordable Connectivity Program?

The Affordable Connectivity Program helps low-income households pay for internet service, providing discounts and potential free service through the Verizon Forward Program.