- Shenandoah Telecommunications Company (Shentel) has extended its high-speed gigabit internet service to approximately 5,000 additional homes in Shenandoah County, with plans to add over 2,000 more by the end of the year.
- The $47 million construction project is partially funded through Virginia’s Telecommunication Initiative (VATI), alongside Shentel’s capital investment and Shenandoah County’s contribution.
What happened: Shentel expands broadband to 5,000 homes in Shenandoah County
Shenandoah Telecommunications Company (Shentel) has expanded its high-speed gigabit internet service to approximately 5,000 additional homes in Shenandoah County, with plans to add over 2,000 more by the end of the year. The $47 million construction project is partially funded through Virginia’s Telecommunication Initiative (VATI), alongside Shentel’s capital investment and Shenandoah County’s contribution.
The expansion focuses on bringing broadband to rural areas, including Fort Valley, to improve education, economic growth, and healthcare. It addresses the challenge of higher costs in rural regions due to lower population density and long distances between homes. Shentel provides fast, reliable internet with simple pricing, no long-term contracts, local customer service, and various video and voice service options.
Also read: Broadband Success Partners rebrands to BSP
Also read: UK broadband traffic surges 10.5% in 2024
Why it’s important
This expansion is vital for improving high-speed internet access in rural areas. As a result, it can enhance education, economic development, and healthcare services. By addressing the challenges of providing broadband in sparsely populated regions, Shentel is not only bridging the digital divide but also fostering community growth.