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Local providers say Bedford County now an "8‑gig" community after $30M broadband investment
Summary
United Communications and Duck River told the commission that a public–private effort using county ARPA funds and state grants has brought fiber service to more than 11,000 homes, with about 1,800 more under construction; company leaders described community benefits including free service for volunteer fire departments and Boys & Girls Club.
Representatives from United Communications and Duck River briefed the Bedford County Commission on countywide broadband progress, saying a multi‑year partnership and a county ARPA investment helped attract private investment and expand fiber service.
William Bradford, CEO of United Communications, said the county will be certified as an "8‑gig" community and that the project has brought the fastest available Internet to more than 70% of the county. “We are soon to be a gig certified county,” Bradford said, adding that more than 11,000 homes already have access to fiber and roughly 1,800 additional homes and businesses are under active construction.
James Wright, CEO of Duck River, described the electric cooperative’s ownership model and community focus; the partners reported about $30 million in local broadband investment tied to matching grants and public funds, and said the two companies together have invested roughly $600 million in broadband and electric infrastructure and employ more than 400 local workers.
Bradford outlined community programs tied to the network: free Internet for volunteer fire departments, free 8‑gig service for the Boys & Girls Club, and free public Wi‑Fi on the town square to support events and local businesses.
Mayor Chad Graham and other commissioners thanked the providers for their work, noting the move from being among the state’s most underconnected counties to having widespread fiber availability.
What’s next: Company representatives said construction will continue through 2026 to complete remaining lines and connect additional homes and businesses.
