White updates broadband service to Arcadia
Hello, friends, neighbors, and constituents, I know many of you are eager for an update on broadband availability in the Arcadia area and throughout Botetourt County. Like you, I’m waiting for broadband access at my home, and I understand firsthand how critical this service is for our community.
Since 2017, Botetourt has been working tirelessly to bring reliable Internet services to every corner of our county. While the news last year that BARC Connects chose to not complete the planned project in northern Botetourt was an unexpected setback, I remain hopeful and committed to achieving 100% broadband coverage and our Botetourt team keeps pushing ahead.
The good news is that Virginia has been awarded BEAD (Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment) funding, and we are staying closely connected with the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), which manages the federal program in Virginia to advocate for our community’s needs.
Our Botetourt County Administration, Department of Economic Development, and elected officials are actively working with various Internet service providers to cover the final 7% of our county that still lacks access to high-speed Internet. It is anticipated that an announcement of BEAD-awarded areas will come out in late spring or early summer of this year from the Governor’s Office and DHCD.
It is our hope that federal BEAD funding will be made available for the areas not currently covered. The intent and goal all along the way, since 2017, has been to have 100% of Botetourt County served with high-speed Internet services through multiple programs.
I promise to update you as we learn more about the next steps. We all want this process to move faster, and I share your frustration, but I will continue to pursue this project until we get it done. If you have any suggestions, questions or concerns, please reach out to me directly at awhite@botetourtva.gov. It is truly my honor to serve you.
Buchanan Supervisor Amy White
Chair, Botetourt Board of Supervisors
