Shentel Expands High-Speed, Reliable Broadband Service in Shenandoah County

Core Viewpoint - Shenandoah Telecommunications Company (Shentel) is expanding its high-speed, gigabit internet service to rural areas in Shenandoah County, supported by a $47 million construction project funded by the Virginia Telecommunication Initiative (VATI) and local contributions [1][2][3]. Group 1: Company Initiatives - Shentel has extended high-speed internet service to approximately 5,000 additional homes and plans to add over 2,000 more by the end of the year [1]. - The construction project aims to enhance broadband infrastructure in rural areas lacking access to high-speed internet, contributing to community competitiveness [1][2]. - Shentel's commitment to expanding broadband accessibility has been consistent since its founding in 1902, significantly impacting the community's future [2]. Group 2: Community Impact - The partnership between Shenandoah County and Shentel, supported by the VATI grant, has improved access to essential resources, education, economic growth, and healthcare for residents [2]. - The initiative addresses the challenges of building rural broadband due to higher costs associated with lower population density and extensive distances between homes [3]. - The project is expected to create a more connected rural landscape, enhancing the quality of life for residents [2]. Group 3: Company Profile - Shentel provides broadband services through high-speed fiber optic and cable networks across eight states in the eastern United States [4]. - The company offers a range of services, including broadband internet, video, voice, high-speed Ethernet, dark fiber leasing, and managed network services [4]. - Shentel operates an extensive regional network with over 16,300 route miles of fiber [4].