North Carolina Secures $63 Million for High-Speed Internet Expansion in 30 Counties

North Carolina has awarded over $63 million through the Completing Access to Broadband (CAB) program to expand high-speed internet access across 30 counties, including Union, Brunswick, Columbus, Alamance, Rockingham, and Yadkin. This investment, supported by more than $44 million from the federal American Rescue Plan and nearly $19 million from broadband providers, aims to connect over 18,000 homes and businesses in previously unserved or underserved areas. State officials, including Governor Josh Stein and NCDIT Secretary Teena Piccione, emphasized that broadband is essential 21st-century infrastructure, vital for education, telehealth, business opportunities, and community empowerment. The CAB program facilitates partnerships between counties and internet service providers to identify needs and accelerate funding decisions. Union County, for example, will connect nearly 1,200 locations, covering about 29% of its identified underserved areas, marking its second CAB grant. Overall, the initiative is seen as a crucial step in closing the digital divide and fostering economic growth across North Carolina.