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Four Counties in Eastern Kentucky sign contract with ALTIUS Broadband to build out wireless broadband network
Breathitt, Estill, Lee, and Powell (BELP) Counties to Benefit
Phoenix, MD - September 19, 2011 - The Breathitt, Estill, Lee, and Powell Regional Technology Authority (RTA) and ALTIUS Broadband announced today that they have signed a contract to begin construction on a wireless broadband service network in four Eastern Kentucky counties.
"The BELP committee is proud to partner with ALTIUS Broadband to bring broadband service to the rural residents of Breathitt, Estill, Lee, and Powell counties," said Joe Crawford, RTA chairman. "Having a signed construction contract is a significant step for the project, but not one the RTA Board takes lightly in our quest to get the best broadband service possible with the limited funds available."
This broadband expansion project, "Coal to Broadband: Making the Transition, Making the Connection," began in November 2009. In the spring 2010, the RTA and Connect Kentucky, as a technical advisor, solicited request for proposals to help build out a broadband network in the rural areas of Breathitt, Estill, Lee, and Powell counties.
After a review of the work plans and contract terms discussions, the RTA signed an agreement with ALTIUS for the construction of the broadband network on September 9. This contract will allow the construction phase of the project to begin. Preliminary work, like securing access to water tank and tower locations for equipment installation, and contracting for an Internet backhaul connection has already begun.
"The BELP project will be an important deployment of a fixed wireless microwave network in this country," said Jim Connor, president of ALTIUS Broadband. "Our partnership with BELP and Connect Kentucky will serve as a model for communities throughout the United States on expanding broadband services in some of the most remote areas to ensure their connectivity and bridge the digital divide."
"Connect Kentucky is excited that the construction phase of the Connect BELP project can begin," said Rene True, executive director of Connect Kentucky. "The citizens of the four counties have been more than patient as we worked out the details of the project leading up to the construction phase. The RTA volunteer board is to be commended for making an extra effort to contract with the broadband provider that can deliver the best broadband network within the project budget."
To learn more about the project, visit www.connectbelp.org.
About ALTIUS Broadband:
Headquartered in Phoenix, MD, ALTIUS Broadband was established in 2001 with the goal of providing the underserved regions of rural USA with a one-of-a-kind, flexible, and blazing fast Internet Service. They currently have operations in Maryland and Kentucky and are looking to grow to other states in the coming months. Their unique ability to provide Broadband access makes them the ultimate solution for all of your Internet Service needs, whether it is in your home or office at http://www.altiusbroadband.com
Media Contact:
Karen Salvo
410-667-1638
karen@altiuscomm.com
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