Broadband Technical Assistance initiative bringing faster internet to Black Belt communities

The Broadband Technical Assistance initiative from the South Central Alabama Broadband Cooperative District (SCABCD) aims to bring faster internet service to communities in the Black Belt. 

The initiative is funded and supported by United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Rural Utilities Broadband Technical Assistance Program. The following communities will benefit: 

Bullock County: Fitzpatrick and Midway, Butler County: Georgiana and McKenzie, Choctaw County: Needham, Conecuh County: Castleberry and Evergreen, Dallas County: Selmont-west, Sardis, Tyler, and Valley Grande, Escambia County: Brewton, East Brewton, and Riverview, Greene County: Boligee, Hale County: Greensboro, Lowndes County: Benton, Farmersville, Braggs, Minter, Lowndes, and Tyler, Macon County: Franklin and Fort Davis, Marengo County: Nanafalia, Providence, Putnam, and Sweetwater, Perry County: Uniontown, Pickens County: Aliceville, Carrollton, Gordo, McMullen, Memphis, Pickensville, and Reform, Sumter County: Bellamy, Emelle, Epes, Gainsville, Geiger, Livingston, and Panola, Wilcox County: Oak Hill, Pine Apple, and Vredenburg.

"As billions of dollars in once-in-a-generation federal funding for broadband infrastructure begin to flow to community projects, SCABCD wants to ensure that resources, peer support, and capital reach the communities that need it most," said a press release from the SCABCD. "We invite community stakeholders and local leaders to join us in this important investment in your neighborhood to create more equitable access and opportunity for all."

Residents are asked to take a test here to determine internet speeds and affordability.