King and Queen supervisors accept VACO award for broadband rollout; chair raises concern about low signups

Representatives from the Virginia Association of Counties and Riverstreet presented the King and Queen County Board of Supervisors with a VACO Achievement Award Dec. 9 recognizing the county’s Fiber‑to‑the‑Home project, which installed about 575 miles of fiber and—according to the presentation—extended fiber access to every home in the county.

Board members credited a mix of state and federal grants and local and private investment for the build. The presentation identified VATI grant funds, federal CAF funds, CARES and ARPA grants, local funds and private funding from Riverstreet as contributors to the project.

Chairman J.L. Simpkins said he appreciated the award but expressed concern about household takeup. Simpkins noted that roughly 1,600 of an estimated 4,200 potential connections had subscribed to service and asked supervisors and staff to encourage enrollment so residents can use the built network.

The presentation and later comments left several operational and uptake questions open. The board did not vote on any new broadband funding or incentive measures at the meeting; the presentation was ceremonial and informational. Members praised the prior board and staff for completing the multi‑year project.

During public comment, Charles Tompson said recent county events at the Tavern Museum were poorly attended; Ms. Norman responded that the county promoted the events through Regroup and social media. The exchange highlighted county officials’ concern about outreach and public engagement, which Simpkins tied back to the need for higher broadband enrollment.

The board acknowledged the award and moved on to other agenda items. The board adjourned at 8:15 p.m.