Officials say an additional 100K SC homes now have access to broadband
COLUMBIA, SC (WSPA) — South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster and Congressman James Clyburn touted the state’s progress in expanding broadband access.
They say there is still plenty of work left to do.
According to officials from the South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff’s State Broadband Office, one year into the state’s efforts, over 100,000 additional households now have access to high-speed broadband service.
Through a combination of state and federal funds, South Carolina has dedicated a total of nearly $480 million to be invested in expanding access to broadband services throughout the state – most notably in rural areas which previous didn’t have any access. Over $55 million has been awarded in the form of grants to internet service providers.
Officials say within the next year, another $400 million will be awarded, beginning with $180 million by December of this year. Finally, an additional $100 million, at a minimum, will be awarded to South Carolina through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Taken together, these funds will allow South Carolina to meet its public funding need for bringing high-speed service to unserved South Carolinians.
“Our rural areas are loaded with talent, and it is vital to our future prosperity that our rural areas and everyone in our state has broadband access,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “Thanks to Congressman Clyburn, and our entire team, we are making great progress. The best is yet to come.”
