Connect Rockingham advances to phase 3; county's contribution roughly $3.25M, phases expected to complete by 2027

County IT staff updated the board on Connect Rockingham progress, saying the county's committed portion is complete and address points are coming online in phase 2 and phase 3.

Derek said approximately 600 address points came online last month and that phase 3 has introduced additional providers, increasing competition in areas where one carrier previously dominated. He estimated the total multi-phase project cost is in the mid-$20 million range and said the county's cumulative expense to date has been about $3,250,000. Derek told commissioners that, depending on the definition of broadband used, coverage could reach roughly 97% of residents once phase 3 and other programs are completed.

Why it matters: Broadband access affects economic development, education and quality of life; staff emphasized that state and federal programs supplemented county funds and that nonlocal (COVID replacement) funds were used where statute prohibits local tax dollars for certain projects.

Commissioners asked about the county's contribution, the role of schools and foundations in funding, and whether the county would need to supplement funds for remaining unserved addresses. Derek confirmed remaining county funds from prior commitments are available to pursue remaining address points and that some previous commitments were returned to the county when state funds filled gaps.

Next steps: Staff will continue coordination with state and private partners through phase 3; staff said both phase 2 and phase 3 work are expected to be complete by 2027 and will report progress to the board as more address points come online.