Franklin County Broadband contract signing means construction can begin

Posted: Jul 21, 2020 / 06:19 PM EDT / Updated: Jul 21, 2020 / 06:19 PM EDT

ROCKY MOUNT, Va. (WFXR) – Tuesday, at the Franklin County Government Building, the Board of Supervisors met with local private companies to sign contracts for the start of Franklin County’s broadband initiative. The projects cost totals at $4.6 million and are expected to get high-speed internet to over 20,000 Franklin County residents.

“This partnership includes public and private investment of over $4.6 million dollars.”
Leland Mitchell – Board Chairman – Franklin County Board of Supervisors

“…and that goes along with $2.4 million in State funding and another million and a half to two million from our private partners as well.”
Steve Sandy – Director of Planning and Community Development – Franklin County

The County is investing money along with in-kind resources besides money.

“In this phase, the County is investing $140,000 dollars of capital, cash if you will. But, also about a half a million dollars in in-kind services. Through staff support, administrative support, access to structures and towers in the county.”
Steve Sandy – Director of Planning and Community Development – Franklin County

Broadband internet has always been a need for rural areas in the Commonwealth, but with remote learning and working from home, it’s even more important.

“In light of all the issues with schools and remote learning, and working from home, this is a big step for the County to be able to get that access to a number of our citizens.”
Steve Sandy – Director of Planning and Community Development – Franklin County

Steve Sandy tells us customers could expect to hook up to Briscnet fixed wireless services very soon.

“We expect customers to be able to hook up to the Briscnet services within the next two to three months.”
Steve Sandy – Director of Planning and Community Development – Franklin County

Today, the Franklin County Board of Supervisors also approved grant applications for phase two of the broadband initiative which would get broadband internet to 5,000 more residents of Franklin County.