Broadband connectivity is increasingly recognized as a vital infrastructure in modern society, and its importance extends beyond urban centers to the rural landscapes of America. In rural areas, where geographical distances often isolate communities, broadband plays a crucial role in fostering economic development, education, healthcare, and overall quality of life. The accessibility to high-speed internet empowers rural residents by providing them with the tools to engage in e-commerce, access online education and training, and connect with a global marketplace. Moreover, telemedicine becomes more feasible, enabling remote healthcare consultations and monitoring for those living in areas with limited access to medical facilities. Education in rural schools benefits from broadband by offering students access to online resources, virtual classrooms, and educational tools, leveling the playing field and preparing them for a digitally driven future. Additionally, broadband facilitates communication and collaboration among community members, helping to bridge the gap between rural and urban areas. To truly achieve equitable development, it is imperative to recognize and address the importance of broadband connectivity in rural Alabama, ensuring that every citizen has the opportunity to participate in the digital age.
To address the the disparity between the served and the unserved regions of the state, we have begun the implementation of our Community Connect Network Infrastructure (CCNI). We prototyped the model over 3 years ago during the height of the covid pandemic. We have partnered with major carriers, utilities and a diverse array of equipment manufacturers in the delivery of highly reliable, affordable managed broadband network infrastructures. We went live in October 2023 after 2 years of testing and validating the model. We are currently rolling our network services in the Black Belt Region of the state.