$19M for high-speed Internet in Virginia

Sens Jim Webb (D-VA) and Mark Warner (D-VA) on Tuesday announced $19 million in funding to bring affordable high-speed Internet to the cities of Emporia and Franklin (VA). The infrastructure grant awarded by the Department of Commerce's Broadband Technology Opportunities Program to Buggs Island Telephone Cooperative will expand and improve the existing broadband and voice communications network. The funds are provided through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, supported by both senators. This is the second installment of funding to expand high-speed Internet service in Southside Virginia. In February, Sens Webb and Warner announced a $16 million infrastructure grant. Upon completion, the project will offer high-speed wireless Internet to as many as 100,000 households, 14,800 businesses, and 800 community institutions. Additionally, the project will reduce the equipment costs of equipment for residents to install broadband service at home.