Governor Kathy Hochul announced the start of a $29.9 million broadband infrastructure project in Sullivan County, which is expected to expand high-speed internet access to over 22,000 homes and businesses. According to the official announcement, this move is part of New York State's wider effort to bridge the digital divide in rural areas through the ConnectALL initiative. The plan includes laying down 253 miles of fiber optic cables and enhancing an existing communications tower, which along with Sullivan County's 11 towers, aims to cover regions that have long been underserved.
The initiative is described as more than an infrastructure upgrade, with an emphasis on improving access to services that depend on reliable internet. "This publicly-owned infrastructure isn't just about faster internet — it's about opening doors to better healthcare, education, and economic opportunities that access to high speed internet brings to the table," Governor Hochul said in the press release. The project represents an expansion of internet connectivity in Sullivan County and is intended to increase access to digital services for local residents.
Hope Knight, President, CEO and Commissioner of Empire State Development, highlighted the commitment to providing an accessible, affordable, and sustainable broadband solution through a public ownership model. As quoted in the Governor's announcement, "The Municipal Infrastructure Program highlights New York State's commitment to innovative, equitable broadband solutions." Senator Chuck Schumer also praised the endeavor, acknowledging the necessity of high-speed internet and crediting the American Rescue Plan and Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law for paving the way for such federally funded projects. Schumer's backing underscores the federal government’s role in enhancing infrastructure to meet 21st-century standards.
The project's operational model involves a partnership with Archtop Fiber LLC, which will manage the service provision on infrastructure owned by Sullivan County, creating a competitive environment that benefits consumers through pricing and service variety. Construction is set to begin post-groundbreaking ceremony, with initial connections expected within 18 months. It will be rolled out in phases to tackle areas with the most urgent need first, while minimizing disruptions.
This significant development for Sullivan County falls under Governor Hochul's ConnectALL initiative, a billion-dollar effort towards creating a digital landscape that is inclusive and competitive. The initiative, having already allocated over $240 million for the construction of nearly 2,400 miles of broadband infrastructure in New York, continues to seek applications for further expansion of services. With the ConnectALL initiative, New York takes substantial steps towards digital inclusivity and positions itself at the forefront of the nationwide push to eliminate the digital divide. For more insights into the ongoing broadband projects, the ConnectALL Projects Dashboard provides a detailed account of the efforts and progress.
