Starting on September 27, 2024, Western North Carolina (WNC) was battered by wind and flooding from Hurricane Helene, the costliest natural disaster in North Carolina history. Entire towns were submerged underwater, and mountain communities were turned into islands as communications infrastructure in the region largely failed. Over the last year, residents and advocates have worked tirelessly to rebuild and ensure that WNC isn’t left disconnected again. Land of Sky Regional Council’s Technology Recovery Program distributed over 1,600 devices, including laptops, hot spots, tablets, and cell phones. Local internet service providers came together to distribute hot spots and establish community Wi-Fi. Local leaders are working together to increase broadband access and digital skills. Now, the region has its first look at the plans for a broader investment in communications infrastructure. On August 28, 2025, the North Carolina Division of Broadband and Digital Opportunity released the state’s draft Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program Final Proposal for public viewing and comment.