Get ready, Alabama! Big news is crackling through the wire! Governor Kay Ivey, alongside a posse of state and local rockstars, celebrated a major leap in our state's broadband buildout on Wednesday. Picture this: The Alabama Fiber Network's (AFN) middle-mile line has officially crossed the J. Lee Long Bridge on Highway 29! That's a HUGE step toward connecting every corner of our state! The celebration went down in Camden, Governor Ivey's own stomping ground in Wilcox County, making it extra special. AFN, that crew of rural-electric-co-op superheroes leading the charge, has already got service bubbling in all 67 counties as of late October! The whole shebang is still on track to be finished by February 2026, according to the Governor's office. We're talking about a 3,500-mile backbone designed to make broadband more affordable, resilient, and FAST for everyone. That means last-mile ISPs can finally reach those folks in the boonies who've been stuck in the digital dark ages! "Since day one, I've been laser-focused on making sure every Alabamian, no matter where they live, gets access to sweet, sweet high-speed internet," Governor Ivey exclaimed. "This middle-mile network is a once-in-a-lifetime investment in our state's future. It's going to supercharge our hospitals, schools, businesses, families, and keep Alabama a powerhouse in the 21st-century economy!" Alabama Power is stepping up as a major infrastructure partner, keeping the AFN project on schedule and super-reliable. Scott Moore from Alabama Power chimed in, "We're stoked to be part of this partnership. Projects like this in Camden and across the Black Belt help us fortify our infrastructure, offer rock-solid service, and bridge the digital divide for future growth." This fiber optic explosion across Alabama will allow last-mile internet providers to hook up homes and businesses in those tricky rural spots. Plus, it'll connect critical community hubs like public safety agencies, hospitals, schools, libraries, and local government offices. It's about more than just Netflix, folks! ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell emphasized that this project shows the state's commitment to smart investments and partnerships. Alabama Fiber Network CEO Terry Metze called it "what partnership looks like," crediting Governor Ivey, ADECA, and the hard-working rural electric co-ops. "Our goal is simple: to make sure every Alabamian has access to world-class internet service, no matter where they live. This network is truly by Alabama for Alabama." Local leaders are buzzing about the life-changing impact for rural communities. Jessica McGraw, CEO of J. Paul Jones Rural Emergency Hospital, said, "Reliable broadband is no longer optional in healthcare. This network will let us prevent service disruptions, securely share patient info, expand telemedicine, and improve access to specialists – all directly improving care for people here in Wilcox County and beyond!" Governor Ivey summed it up perfectly: "Broadband infrastructure is just as essential as roads and bridges. By finishing this project, we're not just connecting cables; we're connecting people, communities, and opportunity across Alabama!"Alabama's Broadband Dreams Take Flight!
Hometown Pride & High-Speed Internet
Connecting Alabama, One Mile at a Time
A Game-Changer for the 21st Century
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
More Than Just Internet
A Vision for the Future
Healthcare Revolution
Governor's Closing Remarks
