Montgomery, AL – Governor Kay Ivey announced yesterday the approval of nearly $150 million in Capital Projects Fund grants, aimed at expanding high-speed internet services to currently underserved areas across Alabama. The grants, totaling $148.3 million, were awarded to 16 internet service providers, marking a significant step towards achieving comprehensive broadband access for the state.
Governor Ivey expressed her appreciation for the dedication of Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, saying, “High-speed internet service continues to strengthen and expand across the state, and we are taking the necessary strides on this journey to achieve full broadband access for Alabama.”
The 66 Capital Projects Fund grants will be distributed among 16 internet service providers, covering portions of 48 counties in Alabama. The funds aim to bridge the digital divide by extending high-speed internet availability to homes, businesses, and public institutions.
The announced “last mile” projects are expected to contribute over 5,000 miles of broadband infrastructure, potentially reaching approximately 54,000 households, businesses, hospitals, schools, and libraries across Alabama.
Governor Ivey acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the Legislature and the support provided by the American Rescue Plan Act funding from the U.S. Department of Treasury in making these projects possible. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) will oversee the administration of the grants.
ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell commented on the significance of the broadband expansion, saying, “Once completed, these projects announced today will provide access for thousands of Alabamians.”
The grants are allocated to a diverse range of internet service providers and cover various regions of the state. Among the recipients, Coosa Valley Technologies Inc. stands out, securing six grants totaling $12.57 million for expanded broadband services in Calhoun, Etowah, Shelby, and Talladega counties, benefiting more than 974 potential households and businesses.
Spectrum Southeast also secured a significant allocation, receiving 23 grants totaling $44.83 million. This funding will support the expansion of broadband services in parts of Bibb, Butler, Calhoun, Chambers, Cleburne, Coosa, Colbert, Cullman, Elmore, Etowah, Geneva, Greene, Houston, Jefferson, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone, Marshall, Montgomery, Morgan, Pickens, St. Clair, Talladega, Tallapoosa, and Tuscaloosa counties. The service areas include a substantial 22,000 potential households and businesses.
This announcement follows a previous commitment by Governor Ivey on February 5th, where $188 million in grants were allocated for the Alabama Anchor Institution/Middle Mile program, laying essential groundwork for internet service providers to undertake the “last mile” projects.
