Wythe County officials on Nov. 25 received an update on Citizens Co-op's 'East End' fiber-optic project and a federal/state funding timeline for completion.

Deputy County Administrator Matt Hankins reported that Citizens Co-op has obtained nearly all required public-road permits and has crews working in Sanders Mines, Austinville and Bering Springs. The company uses direct-bury conduit and therefore still needs private easements for some private roads; staff said Citizens Co-op will contact property owners to obtain needed easements.

Hankins told the board the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) has approved a deadline extension for the project to June 30, 2026, and has indicated it will not grant another extension on this grant award. He said Citizens Co-op also plans to install community Wi-Fi "hot spots" at for-profit businesses in the service area and will pursue details on a federal BEAD award in Richmond.

Board members asked whether schools could host hot spots; staff replied that code restrictions about trespassing on school property after dark may limit that option. Hankins asked supervisors to suggest possible business locations for community hot spots.

No board action was required; the presentation was informational and staff said they would continue to work with Citizens Co-op and DHCD to meet the revised deadline.