>>SW VA Neighborhood is Prime Example of Challenges Faced by Some When Expanding Broadband Service
(Roanoke County, VA) -- A neighborhood in the southwest part of the state shows the challenges of bringing broadband to all Virginians. Thomas Cage with more.Preview: Voicer Script:
Roanoke County is facing challenges in expanding broadband access to a neighborhood near west Salem, with logistical obstacles such as railroad crossings and river tributaries complicating the process. The county is under pressure to complete the project, funded by the Virginia Telecommunication Initiative, by 2026 or risk losing federal dollars. The Cardinal News reports issues with the legality of running fiber optic cable under railroad crossings have led to discussions about transferring the project from Shentel to another provider. Despite legislative efforts to streamline the process, challenges remain in expanding broadband access to underserved areas like this neighborhood.