Nearly $1 million awarded through the Completing Access to Broadband program

A total of 125 households and 19 businesses in Wake County will now have access to high-speed internet for the first time thanks to a state award. The North Carolina Department of Information Technology’s Completing Access to Broadband award will mean high-speed internet access for 11.5% of the 1,251 eligible unserved locations in Wake County.

"This is a priority for our Commission, because we know it’s essential for education, business, healthcare and staying connected in today’s world," said Wake County Commissioner Shinica Thomas. "This investment will help bridge the digital divide by bringing reliable broadband to more families and businesses in our community, ensuring they have the tools they need to thrive."

The North Carolina Department of Information Technology and Wake County selected Brightspeed as the internet provider. NCDIT is investing $691,168.80 in federal American Rescue Plan funding in this project, and Brightspeed is investing an additional $296,215 under the 70/30 matching program. Overall, Wake County will benefit from more than $18 million in public and private investment through these NCDIT broadband initiatives, with more than 4,300 locations to gain access to high-speed internet.

This award builds upon Wake County’s goal of ensuring all its residents have access to reliable, affordable, high-speed internet and the digital tools, resources and skills to fully and equitably participate in our society, democracy and economy. In 2024, the County published its first Digital Equity Plan, which was shaped by robust public engagement and input. The Plan outlines the current state of digital inclusion in Wake County and captures residents’ needs and barriers to bridging the digital divide.