$17 million of federal funding for community improvement projects awarded through ADECA
The State has announced $17 million in Community Development Block Grants (CDBGs) to benefit Alabama cities, towns and communities. The grants have been awarded to 41 Alabama towns, cities, and counties. The grants cover a range of community needs, including water and sewer upgrades, street resurfacing, fire station construction, fire trucks, and upgrading parks. “Probably no other grant program in Alabama has as widespread an impact or is as celebrated as Community Development Block Grants,” Governor Kay Ivey said about the grants. “These grants help local governments take on much needed projects that make communities safer and better places to live. I am honored to award these grants that will help so many communities across our state.” The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs administers the grants with funds provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). “The Community Development Block Grant Program is a competitive process in which local governments examine their most pressing needs and submit applications,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “ADECA is pleased to join Gov. Ivey in awarding these grants for projects that will improve the quality of life in these 41 communities. While there are simply not enough funds to award a grant for every project submitted, all applicants should be commended for their dedication to serving their communities.” According to the HUD website, “Eligibility for participation as an entitlement community is based on population data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau and metropolitan area delineations published by the Office of Management and Budget. HUD determines the amount of each entitlement grantee’s annual funding allocation by a statutory dual formula which uses several objective measures of community needs, including the extent of poverty, population, housing overcrowding, age of housing and population growth lag in relationship to other metropolitan areas.” CDBGs are awarded annually in several categories to ensure local governments of all sizes have opportunities to be awarded funds. Categories include: Small City – populations of 3,000 and below. Large City- populations of 3,001 and above. County – supporting primarily unincorporated areas. Community Enhancement – special projects extending beyond infrastructure improvements. Planning Fund – projects that enable governments to map out goals and long-range plans. According to ADECA the grants awarded by region include: North Alabama Attalla – $500,000 The city plans to upgrade its sewer system by replacing damaged terra cotta (clay) pipes and manholes. Improvements will be conducted in two areas of the city. Blount County – $300,000 The county plans to use funds to make road improvements in the Sugarland Lake Community. Blountsville – $400,000 The town plans to upgrade streets and sewer lines. Among streets scheduled for improvements are Walter Street, Hendrix Street, Center Street and Lee Street. Courtland- $400,000 Funds will be used to improve its water system by upgrading deteriorated and undersized water lines to improve service for its customers. Detroit – $400,000 The town will use funds to construct a new fire and rescue station with two bays. The station will be located on U.S. Highway 17. Hamilton- $500,000 The city will use funds to improve city water services for about 1,600 residents in the Mitchell Station area by installing a new booster pumping system. Hammondville- $400,000 Funds will be used to repair and resurface several roads in the town including Palmer Road, Haney Road and Winston Drive. Littleville – $400,000 CDBG funds will be used to upgrade water lines by expanding their size to increase water pressure and help lead to lower home insurance rates because of better firefighting capabilities. Red Bay – $500,000 The city will provide drainage improvements along 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 9th and 10th avenues in the northwestern part of the city. Town Creek – $400,000 The town will use funds to upgrade its sewer system to prevent back up of sewage into houses and sewer overflows. Central Alabama Bullock County – $500,000 The project will resurface and improve 16 roads throughout the county. Demopolis – $500,000 The city plans to make street and drainage improvements along Fairview Avenue and Cedar Crest Drive. Eclectic – $400,000 The town will use CDBG funds to upgrade its waste-water treatment facility to properly serve current households and businesses and handle growth coming into the town. Eufaula- $400,000 Funds will be used to demolish and clear approximately 55 abandoned and dilapidated structures in and around the core of the city. Franklin – $400,000 The town will use funds to demolish and clear 17 dilapidated structures throughout the town. Geiger – $372,753 The town plans to resurface five streets and improve drainage on some. Streets scheduled for improvements are Kirkland Boulevard, Payne Street, Pinson Road, Smith Street, Ninth Street and Martin Luther King Circle. LaFayette – $40,000 Funds through the CDBG Planning Grant Program will be used to help the city update its comprehensive plan to develop achievable goals for the city involving growth, revitalization and economic development. Marion — $500,000 Funds will be used to resurface Lincoln Heights and several side streets benefiting about 175 people. Moundville – $500,000 The city proposes to construct new sidewalks in the CC Loop and Alabama Avenue area and install storm water drainage in the area of Market and Griffin streets. Munford – $328,100 Funds will be used to demolish a portion of the old Munford High School and clear the debris in preparation for future redevelopment of the town’s core area. Roanoke – $500,000 CDBG funds will be used to provide drainage improvements in two areas of the city, including along Mulberry and Piedmont streets and College and Cannon streets. Shorter – $400,000 The town plans to purchase a pumper firetruck to enhance the town’s firefighting capabilities and help save properties and lives. Sumter County – $500,000 The county plans to provide public water services to nearly 160 households in the Ward and Siloam communities in southern Sumter County. Tuskegee- $500,000 The city will use funds to make water and street improvements along North Church Street. The city will make curb, gutter and sidewalk repairs and upgrade water lines to
Gov. Kay Ivey visits Atmore on her statewide broadband tour
On Wednesday, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey (R) visited Atmore Community Hospital in Escambia County on the third stop on her broadband tour. Ivey stressed the importance of high-speed internet in allowing Alabamians to access telehealth services while highlighting the progress in broadband projects across the state. “Broadband availability is not just for our convenience – it is a lifeline, particularly evident in telehealth services,” said Gov. Ivey. “For thousands of Alabamians in rural areas, telehealth bridges the gap to medical facilities, and without broadband, this vital resource remains out of reach for many,” said Governor Ivey. “I am proud to say Alabama remains committed to expanding our digital infrastructure, aiming to connect households, businesses, and institutions. Our broadband journey continues until every Alabamian has the ability to access high-speed internet.” Gov. Ivey was joined by Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) Director Kenneth Boswell, State Sen. Greg Albritton (R-Atmore), and Rep. Alan Baker (R-Brewton). “When you look at the digital world we live in today, access to broadband infrastructure is just as important, in many ways, as having access to electricity or running water,” said Sen. Albritton. “But for many Alabamians, especially those living in tougher to access, rural areas of our state, getting connected to high-speed internet is difficult and expensive. That’s why the programs we have funded through the legislature are so important; they give internet service providers the support needed to connect these hard-to-reach areas so that no Alabamians are left out. I have been proud to support broadband expansion in my leadership role in the Alabama Senate, and I will continue my work on this issue until all Alabamians have access to the 21st-century technologies needed for everyday life.” Albritton is a 2024 candidate for Congress in Alabama’s Second Congressional District. Eight candidates in total are running in the March 5 Republican primary, and 13 Democrats are running in the CD2 Democratic primary. Escambia and Baldwin Counties are receiving more than $17 million in grant and matching funds committed for broadband projects. These projects will give more than 3,600 currently unserved addresses the ability to be connected to broadband. These projects will result in over 140 miles of new fiber. The overall success of the Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund (ABAF) was also discussed. ABAF is funded by the Alabama Legislature and supports targeted projects in communities in need of high-speed internet access. These funds are awarded by Governor Ivey and managed by ADECA. The grant awards give internet service providers the ability to execute projects that connect individual households, businesses, community anchor institutions such as libraries and schools, and others to broadband infrastructure. “Our continued progress in expanding high-speed internet access would not be possible without a unified team working hard every day to accomplish our state’s broadband goals,” said Director Boswell. “This team includes Governor Ivey, the Alabama Legislature, internet service providers, and others too many to name working together to make sure Alabama residents and Alabama communities have the tools needed to thrive.” Since 2018, Alabama has invested approximately $82 million in state dollars through grant awards supporting more than 100 projects through the Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund. Once all Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund projects awarded to date have been completed, access to broadband service will be available to more than 72,000 Alabama households, businesses, and community institutions that currently have no option to subscribe. The federal government has invested hundreds of millions of dollars into expanding broadband services in Alabama through the American Rescue Plan Act and the Build Back Better Infrastructure Bill. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Gov. Kay Ivey says Alabama is making progress on expanding digital infrastructure
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey (R) on Monday continued her broadband tour with an event at Cullman Electric Cooperative in Cullman County. Ivey discussed upcoming broadband projects in Cullman and Winston counties. “Our presence in Cullman County today underscores our commitment to providing access to high-speed internet for every Alabamian,” said Gov. Ivey. “The remarkable strides made here, supported by the Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund and Cullman Electric Cooperative, signify our dedication to connecting unserved residents. This milestone represents our journey towards statewide connectivity, demonstrating that when one community gains access, we all move closer to a more connected and prosperous Alabama.” Ivey was joined by Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) Director Kenneth Boswell, Cullman Electric Cooperative CEO Tim Culpepper, state Sen. Garlan Gudger (R-Cullman), and state Reps. Randall Shedd (R-Cullman) as well as Tim Wadsworth (R-Arley). The speakers addressed the nearly $7 million in grant and matching funds committed for broadband projects in the area. The broadband expansion will give over 1,300 currently unserved addresses the ability to be connected in Cullman and Winston counties. Ivey and Boswell also discussed the overall success of the Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund (ABAF). ABAF is funded by the Alabama Legislature. It supports targeted projects in communities in need of high-speed internet access. These funds, awarded by Governor Ivey and managed by ADECA, give internet service providers the ability to execute projects that connect individual households, businesses, community anchor institutions such as libraries and schools, and others to broadband infrastructure. “A primary mission of mine in the Alabama Legislature is to ensure that every single Alabamian will have access to high-speed internet,” said Rep. Shedd. “I was proud to discuss the progress we have made so far in my district, and I look forward to continuing our work to make sure that all Alabamians can take advantage of the 21st-century technology that is critical to everyday life. These investments we have made through programs like the Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund have already brought high-speed internet access to tens of thousands of households and businesses, with tens of thousands more on the way.” “Our continued progress in expanding high-speed internet access would not be possible without a unified team working hard every day to accomplish our state broadband goals,” said Director Boswell. “This team includes Governor Ivey, the Alabama Legislature, internet service providers, and others too many to name working together to make sure Alabama residents and Alabama communities have the tools needed to thrive.” Since 2018, Alabama has invested approximately $82 million in state dollars through grant awards supporting more than 100 projects through the Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund. Once all Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund projects awarded to date have been completed, access to broadband service will be available to more than 72,000 Alabama households, businesses and community institutions that currently have no option to subscribe. Following the program, Governor Ivey, speakers, and residents of Cullman and Winston counties participated in a ceremonial groundbreaking. Alabamians interested in learning more about what the state is doing to expand high-speed internet access are encouraged to visit the Be Linked Alabama website, a hub of internet expansion information and news. It includes the Alabama Broadband Map, county profiles and dashboards, and statewide broadband news. Be Linked Alabama represents the state’s united effort to expand access to affordable, reliable high-speed internet. As Alabama works toward achieving the goal of high-speed internet access for all, the statewide initiative is coordinated by ADECA and brings together partners from across the state, including Governor Ivey, the Alabama Legislature, internet service providers, research institutions, utility companies, community leaders, and the public. The state has received hundreds of millions of dollars through the American Rescue Plan Act and the infrastructure bill to spend on rural broadband projects. Broadband expansion combined with road and bridge infrastructure improvements, aggressive economic development efforts, and improving the state’s education system is all a part of Gov. Ivey’s broader plan to reverse the decades-long decline in rural Alabama counties. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Kay Ivey announces progress in expanding broadband infrastructure
On Tuesday, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey (R) kicked off her broadband tour at Oakman Middle School in Walker County. Ivey announced the statewide progress being made in expanding high-speed internet. “As I’ve said many times, our mission to give all Alabamians the ability to access high-speed internet is a journey, not a short trip,” said Gov. Ivey. “I’m proud to say that we’re making great progress across the state, providing more Alabamians with the infrastructural resources required when it comes to 21st-century success in education, health care, business, and the normalcies of everyday life. Expanding our digital infrastructure remains a critical priority for the Ivey Administration.” Ivey was joined at the event by Alabama Senate President Pro Tem Greg Reed (R-Jasper), Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) Director Kenneth Boswell, state Representative Matt Woods (R-Jasper), state Rep. Tim Wadsworth (R-Arley), and Oakman Mayor Cory Franks. The speakers addressed the nearly $12 million in grant and matching funds committed for broadband projects. This work has been completed to give more than 2,200 Waker County residents who are currently unserved the ability to be connected. Participants discussed the overall success of the Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund (ABAF). ABAF is funded by the Alabama Legislature. Alabama received $1.4 billion from the U.S. Department of Commerce to help expand broadband access. It supports targeted projects in communities in need of high-speed internet access. These funds, awarded by ADECA, allow internet service providers to execute projects that connect individual households, businesses, community anchor institutions such as libraries and schools, and others to broadband infrastructure. “Through programs we funded in the Alabama Legislature, our state has been able to complete multiple broadband projects in Walker County, with many more currently underway,” said Pro Tem. Reed. “Our unconnected residents need high-speed internet access, and it is imperative that the state of Alabama continues to support projects that give Alabamians the opportunities created by bridging the digital divide. I’ve been proud to support efforts to expand high-speed internet access in the Alabama Senate, and I look forward to continuing working to give Alabamians the access they need.” Since 2018, Alabama has invested approximately $82 million in state dollars through grant awards supporting more than 100 projects through the Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund. Once all of the Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund projects awarded to date have been completed, access to broadband service will be available to more than 72,000 Alabama households, businesses, and community institutions that currently have no option to subscribe. “I’m proud of the efforts we have made at ADECA to support critical broadband projects across the state like the ones happening here in Walker County,” said Director Boswell. “None of these would be possible without the leadership of Governor Kay Ivey and the support of our Legislature. They recognize this critical need and have worked to address it. We still have more to accomplish, but with continued support, Alabama will reach its goal to get all of our citizens connected.” The state has received hundreds of millions of dollars through the American Rescue Plan Act and the infrastructure bill to spend on rural broadband projects. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Gov. Kay Ivey awards $1 million to state groups to support innovation projects
Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded nearly $1 million to assist Alabama research institutions and industries in producing innovative products and procedures that can help improve the lives of Alabamians. The grants from the Alabama Research and Development Enhancement Fund provide funds for research at Alabama universities and other institutions. The state-funded program helps create advances involving health and medicine, products and services, agriculture, and other fields of science and technology. “Alabama is fortunate to have world-caliber research institutions and top-notch scientists who are developing methods and products that will have lasting impacts on lives everywhere,” Gov. Ivey said. “I award these grants with praise for the wide-ranging contributions these institutions are making to advance our quality of life.” Gov. Ivey was recently in Huntsville at HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, one of the grant recipients, for the ribbon cutting of the Discovery Life Sciences headquarters on the HudsonAlpha campus. The research and development fund was created by the Alabama Legislature in 2019 and signed into law by Gov. Ivey as part of the Alabama Innovation Act. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) Energy Division is administering the research grant program. “ADECA is pleased to join with Gov. Ivey in commending these grant recipients and congratulating them on their past and future accomplishments,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. Those awarded grants are: ADECA administers a wide range of programs that support law enforcement, victim programs, economic development, water resource management, energy conservation, and recreation.
Gov. Kay Ivey awards $2.5 million to fight homelessness in Alabama
Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded more than $2.5 million to assist Alabamians who are homeless or close to becoming homeless. The funds from the Emergency Solutions Grants program will assist local governments and nonprofit agencies in providing housing and other related services to homeless people or people facing homelessness. “Emergency Solutions Grants are a measure to help people who, for a number of reasons, find themselves in need of a safe shelter,” Gov. Ivey said. “I commend these governments and organizations for assisting these individuals and families by ensuring they have secure housing during a time of great need.” The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) will administer the grants from funds made available by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. ADECA administers a wide range of programs that support law enforcement, victim programs, economic development, water resource management, energy conservation, and recreation. “With help from this grant program, local governments and nonprofits have been able to step in to help people in Alabama with emergency housing needs,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “ADECA joins Gov. Ivey in commending the work those organizations do to help people who are going through rough times.” Those awarded grants are:
Gov. Kay Ivey awards nearly $2 million for trail projects in Alabama
Alabamians will soon have new opportunities to enjoy the state’s great outdoors thanks to nearly $2 million awarded by Gov. Kay Ivey for recreational trail improvements. The funds will help build, restore, or improve trails at seven locations in Alabama. “Trails are the ideal invitation to get people outdoors to enjoy the fresh air and Alabama’s scenic natural beauty,” Gov. Ivey said. “I am pleased to announce these projects, which will provide even more opportunities for Alabamians to enjoy outdoor recreation.” Gov. Ivey awarded the grants from funds made available by the Federal Highway Administration’s Recreational Trails Program. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) will administer the awards. “With a well-maintained trail, you have a lot more than a place to get some exercise. You also have a place where you can socialize with others or where you can go and collect your thoughts,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “ADECA is pleased to join Gov. Ivey in support of these new trails.” The awarded grants and projects are: Camden– $184,368 to construct a 5,600-foot-long walking trail with water fountains and rest areas at Bridgeport Landing Park on the eastern shore of the Dannelly Reservoir (Alabama River). A 2020 Recreational Trails grant helped the city construct boat ramps and other improvements at the park, which hosts numerous fishing tournaments. Jackson – $350,000 to build a 1,000-foot-long, eight-foot-wide multi-use boardwalk at Kimball Lake. The boardwalk is the first phase of a plan to connect Kimball Lake RV Park with Parker Lake RV Park, both located near the Tombigbee River. Montgomery – $350,000 to extend the Riverfront Greenway multi-use Trail from Riverfront Park to near Shady Street. The trail will run almost parallel with the Alabama River and Lafayette Street. Piedmont– $350,000 to repave a portion of the Chief Ladiga Trail within the Piedmont city limits and improve signage at road intersections. The Chief Ladiga Trail, a rails-to-trails project completed in 1998, is a 33-mile trail that links the cities of Weaver, Anniston, Jacksonville, and Piedmont. It also connects with Silver Comet Trail at the Georgia state line, which continues to Atlanta. In Piedmont, it is used by locals and draws long-distance hikers and bike riders. River Falls – $90,857 to construct a multi-use trail at the River Falls Pavilion and property adjoining the River Falls Cemetery. The 0.3-mile concrete trail will be eight feet wide. Troy – $322,253 to construct a walking and biking trail and additional parking along with installing picnic tables and benches at Hubert Maddox Washington Park. The 1,320-foot-long asphalt trail will be eight feet wide to accommodate both pedestrians and riders. Shelby County – $350,000 to construct approximately 12 miles of trails to connect existing trails at Double Oak Park. The new trail is part of the second phase of the Shelby County Commission’s plan to provide a recreation venue on the 750-acre site atop Double Oak Mountain north of U.S. Highway 280.
Gov. Kay Ivey awards grant for child safety campaign involving vehicles
Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded a $127,780 grant to prevent the accidental death and injury of children left in hot vehicles. The grant will enable Children’s of Alabama in Birmingham to conduct a statewide campaign to remind parents and caretakers that leaving children alone in vehicles, even for a short time, can have severe consequences. “The loss of a child’s life due to being carelessly left alone in a hot vehicle is an unspeakable tragedy that sadly continues to occur across this nation,” said Gov. Ivey. “This grant will perform a vital role in enabling Children’s of Alabama to conduct a public awareness campaign to drive home the critical message that children must never be left unattended in vehicles. Young lives are at stake.” According to Children’s, pediatric vehicular deaths due to heatstroke are a leading cause of vehicle-related deaths in children in the United States. The medical center, through its Health Education and Safety Center, will conduct safety and public awareness campaigns to reinforce its message. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) is administering the grant from funds made available by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. “ADECA is pleased to join Gov. Ivey and Children’s of Alabama in this life-saving campaign,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. ADECA administers a wide range of programs that support law enforcement, victim programs, economic development, water resource management, energy conservation, and recreation.
Gov. Kay Ivey announces new statewide brand for high-speed internet expansion
Governor Kay Ivey on Tuesday announced how more than $400 million in federal funding and over $1.4 billion from the U.S. Department of Commerce Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment Program (BEAD) will be allocated to expand access to high-speed internet across Alabama. At Tuesday’s event in Dothan, Governor Ivey also unveiled Be Linked Alabama as the name and hub representing the state’s continued efforts to expand access to high-speed internet. “Providing broadband connectivity to every Alabamian, whether it be in our largest metros or most rural areas, has been a top priority of the Ivey Administration since day one,” said Gov. Ivey. “As we launch Be Linked Alabama today, we are furthering our commitment to fully connecting our state. Offering the ability to connect to high-speed internet in all 67 counties is a journey, not a short trip, but Alabama is certainly well positioned to finish this race in the near future.” The new brand comes alongside massive investments by the federal government into broadband expansion in Alabama. The American Rescue Plan Act funds were allocated by the Alabama Legislature in 2022 and 2023 special sessions to support expansion of high-speed internet to unserved areas of the state. Gov. Ivey announced the upcoming opening of grant applications for the $182 million from the Capital Projects Fund to support “last-mile” projects that provide the actual connections to homes, businesses, and community anchor institutions. The application period is expected to open on August 14 and close in October. The state’s new Anchor Institution/Middle Mile (AIMM) program will be funded with the second round of American Rescue Plan Act funds allocated earlier this year. More than $200 million will support this effort, which will potentially serve 500 anchor facilities – including institutions such as colleges and universities, rural hospitals, and government facilities that are inadequately served, along with “middle-mile” deployment that will provide the infrastructure to help facilitate last-mile deployment by internet service providers. The application dates for AIMM program will be announced at a workshop on Friday, August 11. Be Linked Alabama represents the state’s united effort to expand access to affordable, reliable high-speed internet to all Alabamians. The statewide initiative is coordinated by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) and brings together partners from across the state, including but not limited to Governor Ivey, the Alabama Legislature, internet service providers, research institutions, utility companies, community leaders and the public as Alabama works toward achieving the goal of high-speed internet access for all. The Governor introduced that Be Linked Alabama website, a hub of internet expansion information and news. It includes the Alabama Broadband Map, county profiles and dashboards, and statewide broadband news. Kenneth Boswell is the Director of ADECA. “We have a great team in Alabama that includes public officials such as our governor and members of the Legislature, private sector companies, citizens, local leaders, and communities all joining together with a common goal – to give every Alabamian the ability to be connected,” said Director Boswell. “Our state has already made tremendous progress on our journey to expand high-speed internet availability by providers, but we still have a long way to go. Be Linked Alabama represents the progress that we have made and the continued progress still to come.” “The funding announced today will have a lasting impact on Alabama’s future, and I am proud to have the opportunity to administer the deployment of these funds in a manner that will give our state the maximum benefit,” said Boswell. “Every dollar counts, and we are going to deploy these dollars efficiently to help make Governor Ivey’s goal of giving all Alabamians access to high-speed internet a reality.” Along with the massive influx of federal funds, since 2018, the state of Alabama has invested $88.6 million in state dollars through grant awards supporting 109 projects through the Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund. Once all the projects awarded to date have been completed, internet service will be available to more than 82,000 Alabama households, businesses, and community institutions that do not have access to high-speed internet. In September 2022, Governor Ivey announced a grant to support broadband “middle-mile” network infrastructure to improve access for last-mile projects. In June, Governor Ivey announced that Alabama would receive an additional $1.4 billion from the federal BEAD Program to boost ongoing efforts to expand access to unserved areas. ADECA will complete and submit Alabama’s required plan for using those funds to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration. Tuesday’s announcement included a demonstration from students trained at the Wallace Community College campus on how to deploy the fiber optic cables needed for high-speed internet delivery. This training was developed through the Alabama Community College System’s Innovation Center. The Innovation Center brings together the state’s community colleges, industries, and community partners to deliver training offered at no cost to participants thanks to funding provided by Ivey and the Alabama Legislature. Ivey has made broadband expansion a priority of her administration. State Senator Clay Scofield (R-Guntersville) and State Representative Randall Shedd (R) have carried her rural broadband package of bills in the Alabama Legislature. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Kay Ivey awards $1.2 million in grants for electric vehicle charging stations at five sites
On Thursday, Gov. Kay Ivey awarded $1.2 million in grants to provide charging stations for electric vehicles at five locations in Alabama. The grants are awarded to help Alabama be ready as more electric vehicles are purchased and travel the state highways. “As more electric cars and trucks, including many models produced by Alabama car manufacturers, make their way onto Alabama roadways, they will need access to adequate charging facilities,” Gov. Ivey said. “Our goal is to ensure that electric vehicle charging stations are located not only along the interstate system, but on other major highway arteries throughout the state.” Funds for all the projects came from appropriations by the Alabama Legislature under the state Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Program. The grants target well-traveled highway systems away from the interstates or busy locations. Most of the latest awards are in locations along Alabama’s highway system on the state’s eastern corridor. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grants. “These grants are part of a plan to ensure that electric vehicle charging stations are located along heavily traveled roads to give motorists alternative routes to the interstate system if they wish,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “ADECA is pleased to join with Governor Ivey and the many partners in this program.” Those awarded grants and their locations are: Gadsden $180,965 was awarded to Ira Phillips Inc. to install two charging stations at the city of Gadsden parking lot (next to the Museum of Art/Center for Cultural Arts), 515 Broad St. Wedowee $180,424 was awarded to Allen Oil Co. of Sylacauga to install a two-bay charging station at Allen’s Food Mart, 1308 Main Street (U.S. Highway 431.) Phenix City $263,511 was awarded to Catcard LLC to install a two-bay charging area at Burger King, 1135 E. U.S. 280 Bypass. Montgomery (County) $461,700 was awarded to the Montgomery County Commission to install eight charging stations at Montgomery Whitewater, 1100 Maxwell Boulevard in the city of Montgomery. Dothan $118,974 was awarded to the city of Dothan to install two charging station at James Oates Park, 798 Campbellton Highway. ADECA administers a wide range of programs that support law enforcement, victim programs, economic development, water resource management, energy conservation, and recreation.
Department of Commerce to send $1.4 billion to Alabama to boost ongoing efforts to expand broadband access
On Monday, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey announced that the National Telecommunications and Information Administration has released the state allocations from the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment program. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA), which oversees state broadband initiatives, will administer the grant funds. “My priority is for Alabama to gain full ability to be connected to high-speed internet,” said Gov. Ivey. “We have taken several significant strides toward this goal, and today’s announcement provides a tremendous boost in the journey toward full broadband access no matter where you live in Alabama.” States receiving the funds have 180 days to prepare and submit plans to the NTIA for use of the funds. ADECA’s Alabama Digital Expansion Division will complete Alabama’s required proposal. The division also manages funding from the American Rescue Plan Act and the Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund for grant programs to help internet service providers extend service to previously unserved or underserved areas. “Thanks to the leadership of Gov. Ivey and a strong team effort among the Legislature, internet service providers, and many others, Alabama is continuing to make great progress in broadband mapping, planning, and deployment,” said ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell. “These efforts have put us in good position with the BEAD program to accelerate our work to close the digital divide in Alabama.” Since 2018, Alabama has invested $88.6 million of state dollars through grant awards supporting 109 projects through the Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund. Once all Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund projects awarded to date have been completed, access to broadband service will be available to more than 82,000 Alabama households, businesses, and community institutions that currently have no option to subscribe. ADECA has also developed a statewide broadband map and the Alabama Connectivity Plan, which guide the state’s expansion efforts into unserved areas. In September 2022, Governor Ivey announced a grant to support broadband “middle-mile” network infrastructure to improve access for last-mile projects. ADECA completed community broadband meetings in each of Alabama’s 67 counties in May. The White House made the announcement on Monday when President Joe Biden announced more than $42 billion in new federal funding to expand high-speed internet access nationwide. This will reportedly help an estimated 8.5 million families and small businesses attain connectivity. “For around 24 million Americans across this country, there is no high-speed Internet,” Biden said. “And for millions more, their Internet connection is limited or unreliable. High-speed Internet isn’t a luxury anymore; it’s become an absolute necessity. That’s why we acted as soon as we did — as soon as we came to office — with the American Rescue Plan.” The additional money will be parceled out to states over the next two years. In a formal unveiling at the White House, the president compared the new infrastructure project to the government’s work to electrify the nation’s darkened heartland in the late 1930s. “It’s the biggest investment in high-speed internet ever because for today’s economy to work for everyone, internet access is just as important as electricity or water or other basic services,” Biden said. “In our 21st-century economy, access to reliable high-speed internet is not a luxury. It is a necessity,” said Congresswoman Terri Sewell (D-AL07). “Thanks to President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we’re devoting more resources than ever before to expanding broadband, closing the digital divide, and ensuring that every Alabamian can connect to high-speed internet. These funds will be a game-changer for our state, and I look forward to working with ADECA to ensure that they are equitably distributed to HBCUs and underserved communities, including in Birmingham and the Black Belt.” Alabama will receive $1,401,221,901.77. California, which has a much bigger population, received over $1.8 billion. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
Gov. Kay Ivey awards $24.7 million in grants to expand broadband
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey announced that she has awarded $24.7 million in grants to expand broadband services throughout Alabama. The money was divided into nine grants and was awarded to broadband providers across the state to support projects in unserved or underserved areas of Alabama. The completed projects will enable nearly 20,000 households, businesses, and community anchors to access high-speed internet. “Broadband continues to be a top priority of my administration, and as we continue to move into these next four years, we’re taking our broadband journey with us,” said Gov Ivey in a statement. “The projects underway reach across the state and will allow better access to opportunities in education, health care, business, and other normalcies of life. Broadband is vital infrastructure, and our map continues to light up. I am pleased to support these transformative projects as we work toward achieving high-speed internet availability for every Alabamian.” While the state is paying companies to expand broadband, the broadband service is not free for consumers. Households and businesses must still pay for connecting to the service. The expansion will also provide additional links to make it more feasible to supply future broadband service within those areas. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) administers the Broadband Accessibility Fund grants from state government funds allocated by the Legislature. Funds are issued through ADECA’s Alabama Digital Expansion Division, which was created by legislation Ivey signed into law in 2021 to focus on broadband expansion in Alabama. “ADECA is honored to be administering this program that will improve the lives of so many Alabamians,” said ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell. “It is our goal to carry out our duties with this program efficiently and effectively and in the best manner conceivable so that we reach as many Alabamians as possible.” Including the grants announced today, Governor Ivey has awarded Broadband Accessibility Fund grants totaling $88.6 million to support 109 projects across Alabama since the fund’s start in 2018. The state also receives hundreds of millions of dollars in federal funds for broadband expansion through the CARES Act, American Rescue Plan Act, a bipartisan infrastructure bill, and the omnibus spending bill. The grants awarded and affected areas are: Cullman Electric Cooperative – $4.58 million to provide broadband access for 1,356 households, businesses, and community anchors in parts of Cullman, Morgan, and Winston counties. Spectrum Southeast – $351,119 to provide broadband services for 715 households, businesses, and anchors near Double Springs and Lynn in Winston County. Spectrum Southeast – $2.45 million to provide broadband service access for 2,204 households, businesses, and community anchors near Coaling, Vance, and Woodstock in Tuscaloosa County. Spectrum Southeast – $1.02 million to provide broadband accessibility for up to 2,482 households, businesses, and anchors in the vicinities of Brent, Centreville, Vance, West Blocton, and Woodstock in Bibb County. Spectrum Southeast – $2.92 million to provide broadband service in the areas of Calera, Columbiana, Montevallo, Westover, and Wilsonville in Shelby County, with the potential to affect 4,412 households, businesses, and community anchors. Mediacom– $4.05 million to provide broadband service connectivity for 1,756 households, businesses, and community anchors in northwest Baldwin County and southwest Escambia County between Bay Minette and Atmore. Mediacom – $2.91 million to provide internet access affecting 1,895 households, businesses, and community anchors in an area near the city of Robertsdale in Baldwin County. Mediacom- $3.11 million to provide access for 2,824 households, businesses, and community anchors near the communities of Grand Bay and Wilmer in Mobile County. Mediacom- $3.31 million to provide broadband service availability for 1,715 households, businesses, and community anchors near Mount Vernon in Mobile County. To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
