Digital Divide News: 30 Million Boost to Reconnect Rural West Virginians to the Internet

In a groundbreaking step toward bridging the digital divide, the USDA Rural Development Program has announced a $30 million loan-grant to expand broadband access in rural West Virginia. This funding, part of the “ReConnect” program, will primarily benefit Nicholas, Hardy, and Hampshire counties. Of the total amount, Nicholas County is set to receive $24 million, marking a significant investment in the region's connectivity.

Transforming Access to Opportunities

"High-speed internet is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity," emphasized Ryan Thorne, USDA Rural Development State Director. The funding aims to create new opportunities for education, telehealth, remote work, and entertainment for residents who have long struggled with limited or no access to reliable internet.

For individuals like William Woods of Nicholas County, who has been without internet for over a decade, this development could be life-changing. Woods currently relies on trips to the library or local businesses to access the internet, often requiring a 15-to-20-minute drive. "Having it at my house would make things much easier for me and my dad," he shared.

A Collaborative Effort

The initiative is a 50-50 project, combining grant and loan resources. Nicholas County’s commission partnered with Citynet and Hardy Telecommunications to bring all-fiber-optic broadband networks to underserved areas. According to Citynet CEO Jim Martin, the project will not financially burden county residents, as it operates on a revenue-based loan structure.

Gary Roberts, Nicholas County Commissioner, highlighted the broad benefits of this program. For younger generations, enhanced internet access will mean greater educational opportunities, while for older residents, telehealth services can address critical medical needs.

Looking Ahead

The typical rollout timeline for such projects is three to five years from funding allocation to implementation. Once completed, thousands of residents across rural West Virginia will gain access to essential online services, enabling them to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

This transformative initiative underscores the importance of broadband as a modern necessity and demonstrates how strategic investments can empower communities, paving the way for economic and social growth.