MONTGOMERY – Governor Kay Ivey today announced the awarding of nearly $150 million to continue the expansion of high-speed internet service to unserved areas across Alabama.

The 66 Capital Projects Fund grants totaling $148.3 million were awarded to 16 internet service providers that will expand high-speed internet availability to homes, businesses and public institutions in portions of 48counties.

“High-speed internet service continues to strengthen and expand across the state, and we are taking the necessary strides on this journey to achieve full broadband access for Alabama,” said Governor Ivey. “This has been a monumental task, but it is one that will pay multiple dividends for our state and its residents. Today is an exciting day as we announce these latest projects.”

The “last mile” projects announced by Governor Ivey will mean more than 5,000 miles of broadband infrastructure, and once in place, they will have the ability to provide access to almost 54,000 households, businesses and institutions like hospitals, schools and libraries.

Central Alabama Electric Cooperative, located in Autauga County, received funding for seven projects serving portions of Autauga County, Coosa, Dallas and Elmore Counties totaling nearly $23 M and once complete will bring highspeed internet to more than 6,300 underserved households, businesses and community institutions.

Thanks to Governor Ivey’s and the Legislature’s leadership, the Capital Projects Fund was allocated. These projects are supported by the American Rescue Plan Act funding from the U.S. Department of Treasury. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grants. ADECA’s Alabama Digital Expansion Division has been instrumental in the state’s broadband expansion.

“This has been a remarkable journey made possible by Governor Ivey, the Alabama Legislature, the state’s internet service providers and so many other willing and eager participants,” said ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell. “Once completed, these projects announced today will provide access for thousands of Alabamians.