Burke snags $300K in state broadband money

Burke County has been awarded more than $300,000 in funds from the state’s Completing Access to Broadband (CAB) grant program, Gov. Josh Stein announced this week.

The North Carolina Department of Internet Technology awarded the money to Brightspeed, who will contribute $128,000 in matching funds.

The award will provide high-speed internet access to 82 homes and businesses, or 3.32% of the county’s 2,473 eligible locations. The Burke Board of Commissioners has long held a goal of 100% broadband coverage in the county and surpassed the 90%-mark several months ago.

Statewide, $63 million in CAB grants were awarded in this cycle, enough to connect 18,889 households and businesses in 30 counties to high-speed internet.

“North Carolinians need access to high-speed internet to connect them with friends and family, business opportunities, telehealth, and more,” Stein said. “Broadband is key 21st Century infrastructure, and these partnerships between counties across the state and internet providers will help connect more North Carolinians.”

Funding for the projects will come from $44 million in American Rescue Plan (ARPA) money and $19 million in matching funds from providers.