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Roanoke Connect, a broadband service provider and a subsidiary of Roanoke Electric Cooperative, announces that fiber connectivity building has begun in Gates County.

“We’re continuing to break ground across a variety of counties in North Carolina, and we couldn’t be more excited to bring our services to communities that need it most,” said Bo Coughlin, COO of Roanoke Connect. “We’re looking forward to extending our offerings to these deserving residents and businesses as we welcome the new year.”

Each new construction includes Fiber to the Home (FTTH) technology, commonly known as fiber internet. These broadband connections can reach speeds up to 940 Mbps and use a fiber-optic cable, which can send data as fast as about 70% of the speed of light. In addition, fiber-optic cables are not as susceptible to severe weather conditions as other types of traditional cables, which helps minimize outages and resists electrical interference effectively.

“Roanoke Electric Cooperative has provided electricity to over 2,400 cooperative members in Gates County for over 80 years. The new and expanded initiative of Roanoke Connect, a broadband service provider, to provide FTTP in Gates County is essential to the future of the county,” said Dr. Althea Riddick, Chair Gates County Board of Commissioners.

“The pandemic exposed the need for not only broadband services, but the need for high speed and affordable service to all citizens,” Riddick added. “The Board of Commissioners recognize that broadband is a utility, an essential service just like electricity. As the Board works to ensure Gates County’s infrastructure is repaired and upgraded, broadband expansion is second to only water/wastewater. We are excited about the expanded opportunities with Roanoke Connect and are ready to assist their efforts in improving the lives of our citizens, and the operations of our businesses.”

Roanoke Connect offers a variety of internet speed options in order to best serve the needs and budgets of local residents. The provider is committed to positioning the community for success when it comes to reliable connectivity for work, school and beyond.