Wythe County staff reports broadband progress, 911 CAD install and upcoming public hearing

Deputy County Administrator Matt Hankins told the Wythe County Planning Commission that county broadband deployment is progressing and that staff expect the bulk of the project to be complete by the end of June, though several segments are delayed by easement issues.

Hankins listed work finished on Van Lue, Loafers Rest, Sandy Lane and Ricky Road, said Dry Pond and Connor Valley were expected to be finished last week, and reported that Topaz, Reed Creek Drive, Oak Hill Lane and Fox Lane are in process but encountering easement problems. He said work is also underway on Greenbriar Road, Fox Mountain Road, Apache Run, Locust Hill, Grouse Ridge and Peppers Ferry (from Max Meadows to Grouse Ridge).

Hankins also updated the commission on administrative matters: a May 26 public hearing will allow review of the county’s codification of ordinances; 911 Dispatch is two positions away from full staffing and the new Southern Software computer‑assisted dispatching (CAD) system has been installed, which staff expect will shorten caller response times. Hankins reminded commissioners the outdoor burn ban remains in effect and noted the Rural Retreat Lake Campground opened the prior weekend and the pool will open May 15. He also announced the Liberty at the Lake festival at Rural Retreat Lake is scheduled for July 3–5 with live bands, children’s activities and a roughly 20‑minute fireworks display.

Hankins framed the broadband timeline as contingent on easement resolutions and said staff are pursuing federal assistance for some capital projects.