Project part of Virginia Telecommunications Initiative
Broadband service is now live in two sections of the fiber construction project of the Virginia Telecommunications Initiative (VATI) project in Montgomery County, delivering fiber internet technology to previously underserved areas. The new service areas are in the Shawsville area of the county and include addresses on Boners Run Road, Roanoke Road, Oldtown Road, and others, according to GigaBeam Networks, a regional, locally owned and operated internet provider.
“Everyone at GigaBeam Networks appreciates the communities’ patience while this project is under construction and the collaboration it took to reach this point,” said GigaBeam’s Chief Strategic Officer, Eric Workman. “We are excited to have our first customers active in Montgomery County and look forward to providing an exceptional service and experience for the residents.”
According to the announcement, GigaBeam foresees additional sections in the VATI project, including portions of Alleghany Springs, Dark Run Rd, and George’s Fork, will be serviceable by the end of the year. The VATI1 project will then be fully active, making service available to 1,933 passings or serviceable addresses.
“While the path to get to this point has taken some time and required our patience, the fact our community can now sign up for and access high-speed internet is a reason to celebrate,” said Steve Fijalkowski, Vice Chair of the Montgomery County Board of Supervisors. “Our community should be proud of the collaboration and hard work that has taken place to bring high-speed internet to Eastern Montgomery.”
The project has been made possible through partnerships with Appalachian Power Company, the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), the New River Valley Regional Commission (NRVRC), and Montgomery County.
“These partnerships, which have been vital in accelerating broadband infrastructure development throughout the region, are a testament to the power of community collaboration and the shared commitment to bridging the digital divide,” the announcement reads.
GigaBeam Networks encourages residents to sign up as interested in service obligation-free, and a representative will contact them when the project reaches their community. For more information on service availability and how to sign up, visit http://www.gigabeam.net.
Staff report
