Broadband looking promising for Jackson County

For years, the Jackson County Board of County Commissioners have worked tirelessly to expand broadband infrastructure to all areas of Jackson County. They realize the handicap that not only businesses face that have limited service but the impact it has on children attending school and businesses looking to come to Jackson County.

The Board of County Commissioners recently released an update to their efforts. “Bringing broadband access to a rural community presents unique challenges, requiring collaboration among multiple agencies and access to critical funding opportunities. One of the primary funding sources helping to bridge the digital divide has been the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF)— a federal auction program held in 2020 that allocated $20.4 billion to expand broadband access in underserved areas, such as Jackson County. To maximize current and future opportunities, West Florida Electric Cooperative (WFEC) is in discussions with Conexon, an industry leader in rural fiber broadband design and construction. Working with Conexon and its Internet Service Provider arm, Connect, would allow for leveraging WFEC’s existing infrastructure to extend reliable and affordable high-speed internet to unserved and underserved areas.

By utilizing pole attachments and the cooperative’s other existing assets, the collaboration could pave the way for an efficient yet world-class broadband network to potentially encompass all of the counties WFEC serves. The work happening behind the scenes to bring broadband to Jackson County is a testament to the commitment of local government, industry partners, and the electric cooperative. Expanding broadband infrastructure will not only provide affordable and reliable internet access but will also open doors for educational advancements, telehealth services, and economic growth. The County and its partners continue to work diligently to implement broadband solutions and ensure that residents and businesses have access to modern connectivity. As these efforts progress, West Florida Electric Cooperative, Conexon Connect, and Jackson County officials remain steadfast in their goal to eliminate the digital divide and create new opportunities for all citizens.”

As a very old saying goes, ‘Rome wasn’t built in a day’ and broadband in Jackson County appears to be running a close second to that. Progress is being made and for that, you can thank your county commissioners, past and present.

As progress is made, the TIMES will update our readers.  

Jackson County Board of County Commissioners Meeting