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GATESVILLE – The Gates County Community Center, an essential hub for local citizens, has successfully concluded a vital technology upgrade.

Championed by Gates County Community Partnership, in collaboration with Gates County Schools and Gates County local government, this initiative significantly enhances the Community Center’s capabilities, ensuring all community members have access to modern technological amenities.

The center’s upgrade includes broadband Internet, Voice over Internet Protocol technology for phones, and the installation of two 85-inch televisions/displays. This development marks a significant improvement in the facility’s ability to support community activities.

Previously reliant on an inadequate wireless signal from the adjacent high school, the Community Center was hampered by limited internet access. Now, with broadband universally available in Gates County, the Community Center offers robust connectivity to all its visitors.

The expansion of broadband in Gates County was facilitated by the American Rescue Plan Act and the determined efforts of the Gates County Board of Commissioners, spearheaded by Board Chair Dr. Althea Riddick.

“Having broadband access has been transformative for us,” stated Norris Raby, Director of the Gates County Community Center. “For too long, we struggled to deliver effective programming due to poor Internet connectivity. These upgrades mean a great deal and our citizens truly deserve this level of service.”

The renovation holds special significance for the senior citizens of Gates County. Previously, their gathering place was equipped with a modest 32-inch TV, lacking cable and smart technology capabilities. The new smart televisions enable internet-based programming, enhance group activities, and support interactive workshops that benefit the community. This technology is not just a luxury, it opens doors to enriched educational and recreational experiences, fostering greater engagement and learning opportunities.

Dr. Barry Williams, Superintendent of Gates County Schools, reflected on the project’s genesis.

“It was the Gates County Community Partnership that initiated critical discussions in 2023 about our need for better internet access,” Dr. Williams said. “Thanks to their insight and vision, our team, led by John Smith, Director of Technology, began vital planning before transitioning responsibilities to the county government.”

Once management of the center shifted to the county government, the project reached its full potential.

Gates County Manager Scott Sauer praised his staff’s efforts.

“We are grateful to Warren Perry, our Human Resources Director, IT staff members Scott Pearce and Warren Curry, and other county employees who played a part in bringing this project to fruition,” Sauer stated. “The installation of broadband, Voice over IP technology, and large flat panel displays marks a new chapter for our community. We appreciate Gates County Community Partnership for their steadfast dedication and financial support.”

Benjamin Saunders, Jr., Founder of Gates County Community Partnership, emphasized the project’s broad impact.

“A priority was to enhance the lives of our senior population. But with these upgrades, the Community Center can better serve as a beacon for all of Gates County,” Saunders remarked. “We owe our gratitude to county staff, Gates County Schools, and our current county commissioners, whose determination ensured broadband access for all of Gates County.”

Dr. Riddick added, “Gates County citizens and visitors to the community center now have free Wi-Fi connectivity and multimedia access in various locations throughout the building. This was truly a team effort between Gates County Community Partnership, Gates County Schools, and the county. The Community Center now better serves all our citizens, including our vital senior population. This is an utmost priority of the Board of Commissioners.”

This project doesn’t just modernize the Gates County Community Center, it revolutionizes it. With reliable broadband, Voice over Internet Protocol technology, and new, high-tech displays, the center can now host a variety of programming, workshops, and activities that were previously untenable, ensuring it continues to serve as a focal point for the Gates County community for years to come.