South Raleigh News

Governor Josh Stein has announced funding of over $41 million under the Completing Access to Broadband (CAB) program, aimed at providing high-speed internet access to 11,816 households and businesses across 17 counties in North Carolina. These projects are part of the state's ongoing efforts to expand economic opportunities and connect communities with the resources they need.

Governor Stein emphasized the role of broadband in the state's development, stating, “Connecting North Carolinians online helps strengthen our state. Broadband plays a crucial role in our development, and I look forward to seeing how these funds expand economic opportunities for people in every corner of North Carolina.”

Teena Piccione, NCDIT Secretary and State Chief Information Officer, reiterated the importance of internet access, saying, “Internet access is a necessity in today’s world. These grants will fund projects to provide that crucial access to residents in communities across the state. We will continue to partner with counties and internet service providers to make more awards this month as we work to expand high-speed internet to every North Carolinian.”

The CAB program's funding includes more than $29 million from the federal American Rescue Plan and nearly $12.5 million from broadband providers. Several counties, including Anson, Caldwell, Carteret, and Davidson, will receive substantial awards that aim to connect a significant percentage of their eligible locations. Each provider involved has committed to delivering internet speeds of at least 100 Mbps for both downloads and uploads.

The projects will contribute to the broader goals of North Carolina’s digital divide initiative. This effort includes the Growing Rural Economies with Access to Technology (GREAT) grants and previous CAB projects, collectively aimed at expanding high-speed internet access to over 200,000 households and businesses across the state.

Details and updates on these and other related projects can be tracked on NCDIT's dashboard, which highlights programs funded by the federal American Rescue Plan Act.

For further information about the NCDIT Division of Broadband and Digital Opportunity, visit the official website at ncbroadband.gov.