FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Celebrating the Completion of the NTIA Grant Funded Area
MACON, MO – October 26, 2023 – Chariton Valley (CV) announced the completion of its state-of-the-art fiber network in rural areas of Palmyra, Monroe City, Clarence and Hannibal, fulfilling the company’s commitment as a grant recipient of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) Broadband Infrastructure Program.
The official announcement came today from Chariton Valley’s President and Chief Executive Officer Ryan Johnson during an event the company hosted at Meyer Implement Company in Monroe City. In attendance were Bryan Nichols representing Congressman Sam Graves, District 5 Representative Louis Riggs, District 4 Representative Greg Sharpe, Office of Broadband Development Director BJ Tanksley, several community leaders, and Chariton Valley employees.
Chariton Valley’s President and CEO Ryan Johnson
Tanksley spoke about the importance of broadband and thanked Chariton Valley for the company’s commitment in bringing the service to those in need and completing the project ahead of schedule.
“Chariton Valley continues to bring broadband internet to our rural communities. They have equipped us with the resources we need to join the 21st century. Congratulations on deploying this latest round!” Representative Riggs said.
The almost $6.6 million project was made possible by Chariton Valley’s investment of over $2 million and NTIA grant funding of over $4.5 million. Chariton Valley constructed 109.18 miles of fiber-optic cable using NTIA grant funding and 27.79 miles with the company’s investment to deliver high-speed internet access to 845 homes and 970 homes respectively, completing the project a year and two months ahead of the NTIA’s December 2024 requirement.
“With the assistance of the NTIA grant, we have deployed fiber to more of our neighbors in need of a sustainable, faster and more reliable connection. We are proud to be the company to provide this essential service to these areas and of our partnership with the state of Missouri,” stated Johnson.
The NTIA Broadband Infrastructure Program was designed to facilitate partnerships between fixed broadband providers and a state or a state’s political subdivision(s) to support broadband deployment in eligible service areas, defined as census blocks in which a minimum broadband speed of 25/3 Mbps was not available at one or more locations. Chariton Valley was among multiple providers who partnered with the Missouri Department of Economic Development to apply for the federal funds. NTIA awarded $277 million in 12 states and one territory. Missouri received the most funding acquiring $42.2 million.
Chariton Valley’s advanced fiber network delivers Gigabit-capable speed directly into homes and businesses through a dedicated connection. The service effectively connects subscribers with economic opportunities, access to online health care and educational services, supports remote work and precision agriculture, and provides overall enhanced online experiences.
“Chariton Valley is amazing. Compared to my previous provider, Chariton Valley is 100 times better,” said Ellen Dennis, new Chariton Valley customer in the Palmyra NTIA grant funded area.
Mary Kendrick of Monroe City, also a new Chariton Valley customer in the NTIA grant funded area, added, “Switching to Chariton Valley has improved our internet service tremendously. We are now able to stream movies, game, and work from home without interruption. We are happy customers! Thank you Chariton Valley for the superb service you are providing.”
“Chariton Valley’s vision is to enhance opportunities for rural communities. By providing fiber to the residents of these areas, they will benefit in many ways for many years to come,” added Johnson.
BJ Tanksley, Representative Louis Riggs, Representative Greg Sharpe and Bryan Nichols representing Congressman Sam Graves
Ryan Johnson with John Hays of Meyer Implement Company in Monroe City
Office of Broadband Development Director BJ Tanksley
To learn more about Chariton Valley fiber or sign up for service, visit www.cvalley.net/fiber or call 660-395-9000.
Through its influential leadership, innovative advances, and 70 years of experience, Chariton Valley, Missouri’s premier communications provider, continues to enhance rural prosperity and living. Chariton Valley’s reliable network utilizes fiber facilities to expand connectivity to students, families, farmers, businesses, medical facilities, and rural communities every day. Chariton Valley’s success is driven by a commitment to deliver an exceptional customer experience and to continue proudly supporting the communities it serves. Learn more at www.cvalley.net.
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Chariton Valley
Donna Bell
Public Relations and Economic Development Manager
660-395-9636
[email protected]
www.cvalley.net
