Grayson, Upshaw to get faster internet

CULLMAN     -  In an effort to connect all Alabamians to high-speed internet, Governor Kay Ivey joined forces with Cullman Electric Co-op and state legislators Monday, Dec. 4, to announce a $7 million project for both Winston and Cullman counties.
The announcement was made with Ivey on hand to speak, as well as several dignitaries representing not only local and state entities, but also Cullman Co-op, which hosted the groundbreaking of the project at its headquarters on Eva Road.
“Today marks the celebration of a partnership,” began State Senator Garlan Gudger, the event’s emcee, “a partnership between the State of Alabama and Cullman Electric Co-op, which benefits Cullman and Winston County, bringing internet to underserved individuals, businesses and communities to the tune of nearly $7 million.”
Grants provided by the Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund along with matching contributions by Cullman Electric  will now enable at least 1,300 customers not currently served by broadband internet service to receive high-speed service, Ivey said.
Areas in Winston County and bordering Winston County that will benefit from broadband internet service will be Grayson and the Upshaw area near Addison in Winston County, and Battleground in neighboring Cullman County, State Representative Tim Wadsworth stated.
“This will help promote businesses throughout,” Wadsworth said.
“The world we live in is increasingly defined by digital connectivity,” Ivey pointed out. “Consider how critical internet access is to students.  Telehealth services play a vital role in providing everyday healthcare services to patients. To small business owners, high-speed internet is absolutely indispensable for earning a livelihood.
“Together,” Ivey continued, “we have acknowledged the critical need.”