Missouri-based network provider, Chariton Valley has completed the expansion of its fibre communications network into rural Palmyra and beyond.
A partnership between Chariton Valley and Marion County, Missouri made the $8m project possible. Marion County invested $2.25m, using funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The ARPA is a $1.9 trillion economic stimulus bill that became effective in 2021 to aid America’s economic recovery from Covid.
Chariton Valley constructed approximately 120 miles (193km) of fibre-optic cable to deliver high-speed internet access to 732 Marion County residents. The provider also deployed an additional 16 miles (26km) of fibre beyond the rural Palmyra agreement to serve an additional 154 homes. The advanced network is designed to deliver gigabit-capable speed directly into homes and businesses through a dedicated connection.
David Lomax, Marion County Presiding Commissioner states: “When we were first notified we were going to receive ARPA funds, we wanted to put the funds toward something that would last, and this turned out to be an excellent investment. “Chariton Valley kept their word and kept us informed.”
Steve Begley, Marion County Commissioner adds: “At the beginning, I had doubts about whether or not Chariton Valley would be able to accomplish what they said they were going to accomplish. We had some struggles along the way, but thankfully, they got it done. It is a good system, and I am glad we went with Chariton Valley!”
Larry Welch, Marion County Commissioner, says: “From the start, Chariton Valley cooperated with us and worked through the issues. They kept their word, and everything went smoothly, as far as I am concerned.”
Concludes Ryan Johnson, Chariton Valley’s Interim President and Chief Executive Officer: “Chariton Valley is committed to connecting unserved and underserved rural Missourians to fast and reliable internet. Through our partnership with the Marion County Commissioners, we are achieving that in rural Palmyra. We are extremely proud to be making a difference and improving the quality of life in the Palmyra area. We’d like to thank the Marion County Commissioners for helping to facilitate this project. Fibre deployment will continue in Marion County throughout the year.”
Following this project, Chariton Valley will use funding from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) grant to bring fibre internet to more areas in Marion County this year.
