Troy, AL –Governor Kay Ivey marked the fourth stop of her tour through broadband with a visit to Troy University on Thursday, insisting on the crucial role that the internet’s high-speed speeds play in improving educational opportunities in Alabama. Governor Ivey highlighted the interplay of technology and education as a crucial aspect of the state’s digital revolution, and ensuring that students can keep up with the latest technological advances of the 21st century.
In her remarks at the ceremony at the event, Governor Ivey declared her commitment to integrating high-speed internet throughout the state, which reflects an overall dedication to technological advances in education. She hopes for a more connected future for everyone in Alabama through the collaborative effort of achieving digital development.
The Governor Ivey on the occasion were a number of key players, such as Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) Director Kenneth Boswell, Sen. Donnie Chesteen (R-Geneva), Rep. Marcus Paramore (R-Troy) and Troy University Troy University Chancellor Jack Hawkins.
The speakers spoke about the significant advancements in broadband projects in the Wiregrass region as well as across the state, and highlighted the almost $21 million worth of grants and match funding for these projects. The funds are aimed at connecting more than 6,600 addresses currently unconnected within Coffee, Covington, Crenshaw, Geneva, Houston, Montgomery and Pike counties.
A notable project that was discussed included one of the most talked about was Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund (ABAF) which is a fund that is backed from the Alabama Legislature. ADECA is under the direction of Governor Ivey is responsible for managing the funds to fund targeted projects in communities that lack high-speed internet connectivity. This permits Internet service companies to launch initiatives that connect households, businesses schools, libraries as well as other anchor organizations to broadband.
Since the year 2018, Alabama has invested approximately $82 million in state funds through grants, which have helped fund more than 100 projects funded by the Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund. Once they are completed, these initiatives will offer broadband services for more than 72,000 Alabama residents, businesses and community organizations that have no options for subscriptions.
Sen. Chesteen highlighted his belief that the need for broadband connectivity is an essential element to ensure a better and brighter future for Alabama. He was proud of the accomplishments made so in the past and the continued dedication to expanding internet connectivity until all residents of Alabama are connected.
Director Boswell spoke about the collaboration of a united team which includes Governor Ivey and Alabama Legislature, Alabama Legislature, internet service providers, as well as other stakeholders who are working together towards the common ambition of expanding broadband.
If you’re interested in finding out how Alabama is working in expanding broadband internet speeds The Be Linked Alabama website serves as a central point of information and updates. Accessible at broadband.alabama.gov, the site includes the Alabama Broadband Map, county profiles and dashboards, and statewide broadband news.
