CULLMAN, Ala. – Gov. Kay Ivey on Monday, Dec. 4, made a stop at the Cullman Electric Cooperative for a ceremonial groundbreaking to signify the beginning of a new broadband expansion project.
“Our presence in Cullman County today underscores our commitment to providing access to high-speed internet for every Alabamian. The remarkable strides made here, supported by the Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund and Cullman Electric Cooperative, signify our dedication to connecting unserved residents,” said Ivey. “This milestone represents our journey towards statewide connectivity, demonstrating that when one community gains access, we all move closer to a more connected and prosperous Alabama.”
Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) Director Kenneth Boswell; Cullman Electric Cooperative CEO Tim Culpepper; Sen. Garlan Gudger, R-Cullman; Rep. Randall Shedd, R-Fairview; and Rep. Tim Wadsworth, R-Arley shared the podium with Ivey during the event.
“I want to make sure everyone understands exactly why we’re here,” Gudger remarked. “Today marks the celebration of a partnership; a partnership between the State of Alabama and the Cullman Electrical Co-Op which benefits Cullman County and Winston County in expanding internet to unserved individuals, businesses and communities to the tune of nearly $7 million.”
Each speaker addressed the possibilities and opportunities that will be made available with the acceptance of almost $7 million in grant and matching funds that are solely committed to broadband expansion projects throughout Cullman and Winston counties. The funds acquired for the expansion project are expected to reach well over 1,300 families, giving them access to high-speed broadband internet, a much-needed resource in more remote parts of Alabama.
“A primary mission of mine in the Alabama Legislature is to ensure that every single Alabamian will have access to high-speed internet,” said Shedd. “I was proud to discuss the progress we have made so far in my district, and I look forward to continuing our work to make sure that all Alabamians can take advantage of the 21st century technology that is critical to everyday life. These investments we have made through programs like the Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund have already brought high-speed internet access to tens of thousands of households and businesses, with tens of thousands more on the way.”
The Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund (ABAF) has had over $82 million invested by the Alabama Legislature into various projects and expansions around the state; more than 72,000 Alabama residents will be able to connect to the internet from their homes through broadband service. These funds give internet service providers the ability to expand their service coverage areas, connecting local businesses, individuals, schools and libraries to broadband internet service.
“Alabamians interested in learning more about what the state is doing to expand high-speed internet access are encouraged to visit the Be Linked Alabama website, a hub of internet expansion information and news. It includes the Alabama Broadband Map, county profiles and dashboards and statewide broadband news,” said a media release from Ivey’s office. “Be Linked Alabama represents the state’s united effort to expand access to affordable, reliable high-speed internet. As Alabama works toward achieving the goal of high-speed internet access for all, the statewide initiative is coordinated by ADECA and brings together partners from across the state, including Governor Ivey, the Alabama Legislature, internet service providers, research institutions, utility companies, community leaders and the public.”
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