Charlotte Observer

How one Charlotte, North Carolina group plans to bridge the digital divide

The Center for Digital Equity, a local hub operating from Queens University of Charlotte working to bring critically needed technology, computers and digital literacy to residents in Mecklenburg County (NC). But being without a laptop is only part of the issue. The lack of technology can hinder residents from being able to take care of daily tasks like paying bills, checking the bus schedule or making health appointments.

These obstacles are getting in the way of expanding broadband in North Carolina

For many months during the pandemic, Americans were forced to function remotely and were dependent upon internet access to stay connected with work or school. Those who lacked quality access fell behind. With recent passage of the bipartisan Infrastructure and Jobs Act, $65 billion in federal funds will be used to expand broadband infrastructure to underserved communities across the US.

Charlotte's digital innovation will help upward mobility, says FCC Chairman Pai

North Carolina residents will be among the first to have faster 5G broadband access thanks to legislation approved by lawmakers making the state a leader in digital innovation, Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai said. “I remember Charlotte and the surrounding communities in the '80s and '90s and to see how quickly things are moving, the energy in this town and in this county, it’s a testament to the leadership on all kinds of levels, public and private sector,” Chairman Pai said.  He especially praised 2017 legislation to install 5G broadband in the state. But critics of th

Charlotte-based phone, Internet provider to sell itself for $1.5 billion

Charlotte (NC)-based FairPoint Communications announced it is being purchased for $1.5 billion by an Illinois telecommunications company called Consolidated Communications. The deal has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors at both companies. The deal is expected to close by mid-2017. The combined company will keep the Consolidated Communications name, and it will be headquartered in Mattoon (IL).

Consolidated CEO Bob Udell will serve as president and CEO of the combined company, and one director from the FairPoint board will join Consolidated’s board of directors, the two companies said. FairPoint provides phone and Internet service in 17 states, with its largest network in northern New England. This past summer, FairPoint’s largest investor, New York-based Maglan Capital, said the company needed to consider selling itself because it had failed to maximize shareholder value.