After years of effort, Barbour County finally sees progress with broadband! Digital Connections, Inc. dba PRODIGI, in collaboration with the Barbour County Commission and Economic Development Authority, was awarded $6,591,470 in LEAD funds for the expansion of broadband.

Barbour County Commission is utilizing $351,000.00 of Coal County Reallocation Severance funds for the match requirement of $500 per targeted address, while PRODIGI committed $371,500.00; for a total project cost valued at $7,313,970.

Connectivity will get to 803 targeted addresses in Preston and Barbour Counties. Of the 803 addresses, 702 of them are located in Barbour County. The project will serve locations in the communities of Kasson, Moatsville, Valley Furnace, Tacy, Nestorville, Stalnaker Road, White Oak, Philippi, Belington, Albright, Kingwood, Thornton, Bruceton Mills, and Tunnelton. By extending broadband coverage to underserved areas, residents and businesses alike will gain access to essential online services, educational resources, telehealth opportunities, and remote work possibilities, contributing to enhanced quality of life and economic vitality. This initiative is set to

drive economic growth and foster greater opportunities in underserved communities.

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As indicated in the Barbour County Broadband study, the eastern part of the county is

significantly underserved with cellular and broadband connectivity so we decided this area is where we would begin our focus,” stated Jamie Carpenter, Commission President. “Working with Cheryl Wolfe, Barbour EDA, and the Prodigi team, the project is coming to fruition and we are excited for what the future holds. It’s also important to know that the match funds are from the great work of our coal miners.”

Grant funds come from two West Virginia Broadband Investment Plan programs, Line Extension Advancement and Development (LEAD) and Major Broadband Project Strategies (MBPS). More than 6,000 targeted locations are expected to benefit from these LEAD and MBPS projects, creating around 793 miles of new infrastructure throughout the state. An additional $16 million in matching funds was also added to the total fund, with more expected to come.

The LEAD Program is designed to fund extensions of existing last-mile cable modem and fiber-to-the-premise broadband networks that can be constructed quickly. PRODIGI’s project aligns perfectly with this focus, having an objective to narrow the digital gap and serve residents through access of reliable and affordable high-speed internet. A goal of these funding programs is to bring internet access to those who have no access or limited access. As part of the application process, the funding programs defined addresses as targeted and non-targeted; this project is focused on serving targeted addresses that do not have connectivity. These parameters drove

the initial fiber route. The infrastructure was designed to be expanded; the groundwork has to be established first, then the next step is getting deeper in the rural areas. As long as the line passes by the address and the address can be reached by secondary lines, there is no additional cost to the address owner to hook up to the service. Generally, if your structure is within 3,000 feet of trunk line, connectivity will be an option.

Barbour County’’s project is set to include the installation of approximately 135 miles of state-of-the-art fiber infrastructure delivering Gigabit speeds. This robust network will form the backbone of efficient and lightning-fast broadband connectivity, laying the foundation for future innovation and economic development.

“Internet is a vital part of today’s society”, said Jedd Schola, Commissioner. “This project has a huge impact on Barbour County’s infrastructure and improving over 700 residents’ quality of life.

We are committed on moving Barbour County forward in every way possible.”

David Strait, Commissioner added, “Broadband has become one of our standard utilities, much like sewer, water and electricity. While this infrastructure is vital to attract growth, I am more excited about what it can bring to the citizens already here. Our many agricultural and home-based businesses will be able to better produce, track and market products. Those traveling for work can now consider work from home options and most of all, reliable broadband opens a whole new world of educational opportunities for children and adults alike.”

While the utility pole permitting is cumbersome, PRODIGI has made significant progress since the award announcement in July 2023. Preconstruction requirements are nearly complete, allowing construction to begin soon and expect completion within 12-15 months. Residents of the communities can expect to see PRODIGI staff frequently in the coming weeks.

Cheryl Wolfe, Director Barbour County Economic Development Authority would like to recognize Prodigi for their hard work and willingness to expand into Barbour County. “Many of our residents have been waiting a long time for service or to have a choice of service. This project opens up the potential to eventually offer high-speed Internet to all of our residents and businesses.”

PRODIGI offers a variety of services including internet, phone, tv and bundling options at an affordable price. Options can be found at https://www.prodigiwv.net/. The website provides information on the products and services, an interactive coverage map, and the ability to sign-up for services online.

To keep track of the project progress and find out if your address will be served, visit the following link: https://dgw.maps.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/2a5ecd5aa4394a10a2ba465580102592 or contact the County Commission office at 304-457-0025.

“We are beyond excited to embark on this transformative journey in partnership with the Economic Development Authority and the Barbour County Commission,” stated Tim Wotring, President at Prodigi. “Broadband connectivity is no longer a luxury but a necessity for thriving communities. Our mission is to bridge the digital gap in North Central West Virginia, empowering residents with the tools they need to excel in education, business, healthcare, and beyond.”