Brightspeed to Expand High Speed Internet Access in Campbell County
Summary: Campbell County included as one of 6 Counties plus Charlottesville in first phase rollout of fiber-optic internet data network from new provider Brightspeed. Expected to begin signing customers by the end of 2023.
Brightspeed, a newly-formed internet service provider headquartered in Charlotte NC, has announced plans to bring faster, more reliable internet and Wi-Fi to over 60,000 residential and commercial locations including parts of Campbell and five other Virginia Counties, as well as portions of the city of Charlottesville by the end of next year. Brightspeed expects to begin to sign customers onto its network near the end of 2023. Specifics on which areas of Campbell County will be serviced were not released at this time.
Brightspeed plans to invest at least $2 billion in its fiber optics transformation, which is expected to reach up to 3 million homes and businesses over the next five years, including in many locations where fiber and advanced technology have not historically been deployed.
“We are looking forward to the start of our ambitious network build in Virginia,” said Tom Maguire, Chief Operating Officer of Brightspeed. “Households and businesses have a critical need for reliable, high-quality internet to help them accomplish what is most important, whether it is working from home, remote learning, access to healthcare, streaming entertainment, or simply staying connected with others. We are excited to offer a new choice in internet and the full capabilities of our advanced fiber network to the residents and businesses in our Virginia footprint.”
County Administrator Frank J. Rogers understands broadband access is a critical service for County residents and businesses. “The Board of Supervisors is working in conjunction with Shentel, Riverstreet Communications and Firefly to expand service throughout the county,” he states. “The Brightspeed announcement is a welcome addition to those efforts.”
About Fiber Optic Internet
Fiber optic internet is a data connection carried by a cable filled with thin glass or plastic fibers. Data travels through them as beams of light pulsed in a pattern. Fiber optic internet speeds can be about 20 times faster than regular cable at 1 Gb per second both for upload and download speeds at the highest level of connection (FTTH-"Fiber to the Home"). The Brightspeed announcement did not specify which levels of connection would initially be available in Campbell County, but the level of connection will affect data speeds.
What Internet Services are Available at My Address?
The Commonwealth Connection interactive map, an online tool developed by Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) and Virginia Tech that allows Virginians to discover broadband in their neighborhood and filter specific details. The information is 100% based on information submitted by internet service providers (ISPs) in Virginia and is updated regularly. The map also includes other useful information such as US Congressional Districts, VA State Senate and State House Districts, Census Block ID, and more. Check it out under the Why Campbell/Broadband tab on www.campbellvirginia.com.