Fiber lighting kicks off broadband development in Eden, Bryce, and Fort Thomas, AZ

Valley Telecom, Graham County and the Arizona Broadband Department of the Arizona Commerce Authority celebrated its newest project with a ceremonial “first fiber lighting.” Dignitaries gathered in the Fort Thomas High School auditorium Monday morning to celebrate the $5.5 million project to bring broadband to Eden, Bryce and Fort Thomas. “Reliable broadband isn’t a luxury anymore; it’s a necessity,” said Arizona Broadband Director Nick Capozzi. Arizona Broadband granted $4.8 million to the project, with Valley Telecom contributing $464,000 and Graham County $250,000. “That investment is just a small amount (compared to) our return,” said Graham County Supervisor John Howard. “It’s going to be a great return to come back to us. I feel like it is so I’m very happy with it and I wouldn’t hesitate to do it again.” The entire project includes installing 65.5 miles of fiber, serving 440 homes and businesses.