Closing the digital divide: BCDP helps expand broadband access in Brunswick County

The promise of telecommunications is more than advancements in engineering prowess. Access to the internet has become a vital tool, a way to help all Americans learn and accomplish more. As former President Bill Clinton observed, “Given the explosive growth in the use of the World Wide Web for publishing, electronic commerce, lifelong learning and the delivery of government services, it is vital that the Web be accessible to everyone.”

And yet, the Web − and accompanying broadband services − aren’t universally accessible. Neighborhoods throughout the U.S. are without broadband service because the infrastructure needed to reach them is too expensive. That’s why the Biden Administration’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) allocated millions of dollars to the states to help telecom companies expand their networks and bring the internet to everyone who wants it.

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein announced in late April that North Carolina will designate more than $44 million in ARC funds to help expand broadband access to homes across the state. Along with $19 million of additional support from North Carolina internet service providers, more than 19,000 homes will begin to enjoy the promise of today’s telecommunications technology. “Broadband is key 21st Century infrastructure,” Stein said. “These partnerships between counties across the state and internet providers will help connect more North Carolinians.”

Here in Brunswick County, 335 neighborhoods are without access to the internet. That will soon change for many. Last year, BCDP’s 1st and 3rd Vice Chairs met with residents off Route 133/River Road, then a FOCUS representative, to discuss the long overdue need for broadband access and to explore possible remedies. Follow-up meetings were fruitful, and the result is that FOCUS Broadband is bringing high-speed internet access to 192 homes and businesses. That’s more than half of the county’s grant-eligible locations. 

“BCDP was pleased to have a hand in bringing broadband services to this previously underserved area,” said Chair Shelley Allen. “We appreciate the commitment by FOCUS to add these homes to its high-speed internet access service. We’re committed to building on this successful partnership and will continue to engage government and business to make sure more Brunswick County residents can bridge the digital divide.”