River Street updates Danville's $28.5M fiber expansion project to serve 5,000 locations

During the Amelia County Board of Supervisors meeting on April 16, 2025, significant discussions centered around a major broadband expansion project aimed at enhancing internet access across the county. The project, which involves the installation of approximately 374 miles of fiber optic cable, is set to connect nearly 4,900 locations, addressing the growing demand for reliable internet service in the region.

The total cost of the project is estimated at $28.5 million, with funding sourced from multiple avenues. River Street, the company leading the initiative, is contributing $5.1 million, while Amelia County is utilizing $4.4 million from American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. Additionally, the project has secured $18.6 million from the state of Virginia, with further support from the Rural Digital Opportunity Funds (RDOF) amounting to $351,000 over a ten-year period. These funds will be disbursed as the project reaches specific milestones, with all expenditures required to be completed by the end of 2026 due to ARPA stipulations.

As of the meeting, the project has already passed nearly 5,000 locations, a notable increase attributed to the recent acquisition of TDS, a local telephone company. This acquisition has allowed for the integration of existing fiber infrastructure, which was previously underutilized. The number of customers with fiber access has risen from approximately 313 to 378 since the last report, indicating progress in expanding service availability.

The meeting also highlighted the ongoing efforts to upgrade the existing network and the construction of new facilities. Plans are in place to establish a central office in the southeastern corner of the county, known as Lower Amelia, with construction expected to commence soon. This facility will play a crucial role in supporting the expanded network and ensuring high-speed internet service to residents.

In addition to the primary broadband initiative, the meeting addressed the importance of community engagement. Residents are encouraged to check their addresses on a provided map to determine if they will receive fiber service. Those not included in the current build can express interest in future service, ensuring that the project remains responsive to community needs.

Overall, the discussions during the meeting underscored the county's commitment to improving internet access, which is vital for economic development and quality of life in Amelia County. As the project progresses, it is anticipated that more residents will benefit from enhanced connectivity, paving the way for future growth and opportunities in the region.