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Empower reports fiber expansions near completion; BEAD funding to add more Halifax addresses
Summary
Empower told the Board its three VATI projects have connected about 7,970 addresses (98.2% complete overall) and that BEAD funding will add roughly 2,183 additional addresses pending final approval, moving the county toward roughly 10,000 served addresses.
Representatives from Empower updated the Board on broadband progress, saying investments under the Virginia Telecommunications Initiative (VATI) have reached the majority of planned addresses and that federal BEAD funding will extend service further.
David Lipscomb reported VATI 2022 serves 4,854 customer locations and is 98.7% complete; VATI 2023 added 1,893 locations (97.5% complete); VATI 2024 added 1,223 locations (97.8% complete), with the three VATI projects totaling 7,970 addresses and approximately 98.2% complete. Empower said it also expects BEAD funds to bring service to about 2,183 additional addresses once approved, with the combined programs ultimately serving roughly 10,000 Halifax addresses. The company noted ARPA-funded work remains on schedule and that many construction connections have been completed since earlier project phases.
Board members praised the partnership as life-changing for many residents and asked about completion timing and remaining pockets of unserved locations. Empower said most remaining addresses are scattered pockets and coordination with state and regional partners is ongoing.
