FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
MACON, MO – September 23, 2022 – Chariton Valley (CV) announced today it will bring high-speed fiber internet to rural homes, businesses, and farms in areas of Monroe and Randolph Counties utilizing funds awarded through the third round of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) ReConnect Loan and Grant Program.
“With the assistance of the ReConnect grant, Chariton Valley will provide fast and reliable fiber internet to many in these underserved counties. Being named a ReConnect grant recipient and part of this rural development project is an honor,” stated Kirby J. Underberg, Chariton Valley’s President and Chief Executive Officer.
The USDA ReConnect Loan and Grant Program was established to support broadband development in rural underserved areas, defined as those not located in communities with populations of more than 20,000 and with a minimum of 50% of homes without access to at least a broadband speed of 100/20 Mbps. Eligible providers, like Chariton Valley, had to be capable of deploying a broadband speed of 100/100 Mbps to each location in a qualifying area. The third round of the ReConnect Program awarded $502 million in 20 states with Missouri receiving over $14.6 million in loans and grants.
The over $2.2 million specifically awarded to Chariton Valley as a grant recipient will be used to deploy fiber internet to underserved areas in Monroe and Randolph Counties. Connecting 642 people, eight businesses, and 94 farms to the company’s advanced fiber network supports Chariton Valley’s vision to provide premier services to enhance opportunities for rural communities.
Chariton Valley’s fiber network delivers high-speed internet directly into homes and businesses through a dedicated connection, and as a participant in the Lifeline and Federal Communication Commission’s Affordable Connectivity programs, the company ensures affordable fiber service.
“We are proud to be a local company, committed to the communities we serve, and to have been selected as a ReConnect grant recipient. By deploying fiber to these areas utilizing the ReConnect funds, Chariton Valley will provide more rural Missourians with significantly faster and much more reliable internet to meet their needs now and in the future,” added Underberg.
To learn more about Chariton Valley’s fiber service or sign up, visit www.cvalley.net/fiber or call 660-395-9000.
About Chariton Valley
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 supporting the communities it serves with pride. Learn more at www.cvalley.net.
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Chariton Valley
Donna Bell
660-395-9636
[email protected]
www.cvalley.net
