Patrick County, Virginia, is one of the recipients of a $700,000 grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) for a universal broadband project. The grant will help install 101 miles of fiber, which will provide internet service to 3,424 locations in the county.
Broadband project aims to improve quality of life
The West Piedmont Planning District Commission Universal Broadband Project is a collaborative effort between Patrick County, the ARC, the state of Virginia, and private partners. The total project funding is $7,544,000, with $700,000 coming from the ARC.
The project plans to install 101 miles of fiber, which will ensure service is available at 3,424 locations around Patrick County. According to ARC, this project will result in 3,312 new residential connections, 102 new business connections, and 10 new community anchor connections.
The project aims to improve the quality of life of residents in Patrick County, especially in the areas of education, health care, and economic development. With broadband access, residents will be able to access online learning, telehealth, and remote work opportunities.
Congressman Griffith praises the grant award
U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA), who represents the 9th District of Virginia, which includes Patrick County, announced the grant award on Wednesday, February 14, 2024. He praised the ARC for supporting the broadband expansion project.
“The $700,000 awarded by ARC today will assist in the expansion of broadband services to unserved and underserved areas of Patrick County,” Griffith said. “Once completed, this project will provide access to 3,424 homes and businesses in Patrick County, greatly improving the quality of life of residents in this increasingly digital age.”
Griffith has been a vocal advocate for expanding broadband access in rural areas. He has introduced several bills in Congress to address the issue, such as the Gigabit Opportunity Act and the Rural Broadband Permitting Efficiency Act.
Patrick County faces challenges and opportunities with broadband
Patrick County is a rural county in southwestern Virginia, with a population of about 18,000. It is part of the Appalachian region, which has historically faced economic and social challenges. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income in Patrick County was $40,494 in 2019, lower than the state average of $74,222. The poverty rate was 16.9%, higher than the state average of 9.9%.
Broadband access is one of the key factors that can help improve the economic and social conditions in Patrick County. According to the Federal Communications Commission, about 39% of rural Americans lack access to broadband, compared to 4% of urban Americans. In Patrick County, only 64% of households have a broadband subscription, according to the Census Bureau.
With the ARC grant and the universal broadband project, Patrick County hopes to bridge the digital divide and create new opportunities for its residents and businesses. The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2024.
