CAMDEN, AL – February 5, 2024 – Joe Wheeler EMC (JWEMC) is proud to announce that it has been selected as a recipient of an Alabama Anchor Institution/Middle-Mile Grant. This grant, totaling $5.25 million, will enable JWEMC to expand its FlashFiber internet service to the Courtland area, further enhancing connectivity and access to high-speed internet in the last underserved area in Lawrence County.
Governor Kay Ivey unveiled the grant recipients during a special announcement on Monday, February 5, in her hometown of Camden. JWEMC is honored to be among the organizations chosen to receive funding through this program, which aims to bridge the digital divide and promote economic development across Alabama.
With this grant, JWEMC plans to deploy state-of-the-art fiber optic infrastructure in the Courtland area, providing local businesses and community institutions with reliable, high-speed internet access. This initiative will support local businesses, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities while providing residents access to FlashFiber's GIG-speed residential service. The planning phase of this project will begin soon after the fiber construction for JWEMC members is complete, which is expected to conclude by March.
"We are thrilled to have been awarded this grant, which will allow us to continue our mission of delivering world-class internet services to all of the underserved communities in Morgan and Lawrence Counties," said Ray Long, Joe Wheeler EMC's Board President. "Access to high-speed internet is essential for economic growth, education, healthcare, and overall quality of life. Our team is committed to ensuring that the Courtland area has the same access to the reliable, high-speed connectivity that FlashFiber provides to the rest of the area."
“The Town of Courtland is honored to support Joe Wheeler EMC and FlashFiber as they utilize these funds to bring our businesses and residents this much needed service,” said Courtland Mayor, Linda Peebles. “As Mayor of Courtland, I want to thank Governor Ivey, JWEMC, Flash Fiber and everyone else who helped to make this possible.
JWEMC is grateful for the support of Governor Kay Ivey, ADECA, Mayor Linda Peebles, State Representative Ernie Yarbrough, Courtland's Fire Chief Scott Norwood, and Interim Police Chief Bill LaPradd. We also appreciate the support of all partners involved in making this project possible. We look forward to collaborating with local stakeholders to bring fast, reliable internet service to the Courtland community.
Also Read: https://governor.alabama.gov/newsroom/2024/02/governor-ivey-awards-188-million-for-middle-mile-broadband-projects-with-impact-across-the-state/