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Tackling Broadband Barriers in West Virginia

Tackling Broadband Barriers in West Virginia

This week, Annie Stroud, Broadband Director at Generation West Virginia joined Fiber for Breakfast and shared insights on overcoming challenges to expand broadband access across the state. Generation West Virginia, a non-profit focused on equipping young West Virginians with the skills and opportunities to thrive locally, recognizes broadband as a critical tool for retaining talent and fostering economic growth. Since 2020, their broadband program has focused on addressing connectivity gaps, driving impactful initiatives.

Key achievements include securing over $46 million in state and federal funding, matched with local contributions, resulting in nearly $100 million in broadband investments. Annie highlighted the organization’s collaboration with the West Virginia Department of Economic Development and other stakeholders to provide technical assistance for infrastructure and digital equity projects. These efforts lay the groundwork for a more connected and economically vibrant state.

West Virginia has made significant progress in advancing digital equity. Through a partnership with Appalachia Digital Accelerator Program, 18 counties now have comprehensive digital equity plans addressing access, affordability, and adoption. The state secured $1.2 billion in funding through the BEAD program, closely matching its broadband deployment cost estimates.

Several challenges remain. Affordability for underserved residents continues to be a barrier, along with low adoption rates for completed projects. West Virginia’s mountainous terrain and rural geography present logistical challenges for deploying broadband infrastructure, often resulting in higher costs and longer project timelines.

One notable challenge involves pole attachments, which are critical for expanding broadband infrastructure. The state faces delays due to the complexities of coordinating with utility companies, navigating permitting processes, and managing the higher costs of replacing or upgrading poles. Annie highlights how innovative approaches, like state task forces and rapid response mediation teams, are being used to overcome regulatory and logistical barriers, minimize delays, and control costs when connecting rural areas.

Annie emphasized the importance of partnerships with regional councils, state agencies, and community stakeholders in overcoming these challenges. Organizations like Generation West Virginia are playing a key role in ensuring that federal and state funding, such as the $1.2 billion allocated under the BEAD program, effectively connects unserved communities.

With BEAD proposals due in April, the state is on track to finalize plans for broadband expansion, addressing connectivity gaps in rural areas and paving the way for long-term economic growth. By leveraging collaboration, innovation and targeted funding, West Virginia is making strides towards ensuring all residents have access to reliable and affordable broadband. To learn more about West Virginia’s approach to broadband expansion, listen to the full conversation with Annie Stroud on the Fiber for Breakfast podcast.