Aug 30 2010
North Alabama Electric Cooperative (NAEC) has received federal stimulus funds of $19.1 million to offer broadband cable and Internet service in Marshall and Jackson counties, Alabama. The NAEC utility is one among the six projects to get the funding in Alabama.
The network system, to be installed, will offer the business and residential subscribers with access to sufficient bandwidth required for their specific needs. Using this optical fiber network service, businesses can use video streaming and have any advanced capability.
Currently, the utility maintains line of about 2,100 miles, and it will construct a same kind of trunk line with fiber cable. In addition, NAEC will buy and deploy the equipment needed to offer the broadband service. However, NAEC is waiting to get USDA’s package, specifying the requirements of the regulations and deadlines related to the allocation.
The utility will have to complete two-thirds of the optical fiber project in the next three years. Accordingly, NAEC will employ contractors for installation of the system within the allotted time. In addition, local workers will be brought in to work for the contractors for the completion of the project.