The Alabama Fiber Network and its eight electric cooperatives have fulfilled a major state grant provision, building out middle mile broadband to 65 of Alabama’s 67 counties that offers access to the fastest internet service available anywhere.
“This is another great example of co-ops getting it done,” said NRECA Broadband Director Cliff Johnson. “Rural electric co-ops in broadband like those in AFN continually work together to go where no one else will. This project is a critical part of ensuring rural communities are served.”
The co-ops’ state-of-the-art network has deployed more than 3,400 miles of fiber and met the requirements of its $82.5M middle-mile state grant awarded from American Rescue Plan Act funds.
“This is a major accomplishment for our state,” said AFN CEO Terry Metze. “Our team has worked tirelessly to not only meet expectations but to exceed them.”
AFN’s infrastructure supports internet speed capacity of at least 400 gigabits per second, and that can be rapidly scaled to 24 terabits for broadband providers connecting vital entities like schools, public safety agencies and health care facilities.
AFN opened for business last summer and plans to complete its statewide buildout this year, then pursue service to over 650 community anchor institutions identified by the state.
Johnson said that co-op-built middle mile helps ensure rural communities not only have the infrastructure to support reliable high-speed internet service but can also maintain affordable data transmission rates.
“Unlike large commercial networks, a cooperative-owned-and-operated middle mile provides the fastest internet connections available while keeping a community-first focus. That means sustaining high reliability at the lowest cost possible,” he said. “This is a big win for the people of Alabama.”
Cathy Cash is a staff writer for NRECA.