Wireless coverage has greatly expanded on the Eastern Shore of Virginia with towns benefitting from new towers providing WiFi and better mobile service, reported Community Networks. With Government agencies, local schools, healthcare institutions, and a NASA flight facility relying on connectivity, it has become an indispensable resource. Additionally, local rural communities that have little to no choice when it comes to mobile and fixed wireless providers are now obtaining better rates and improved services because of the towers.
Over the next six months, Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) service will expand to 14 more areas in the region. The Eastern Shore of Virginia Broadband Authority (ESVBA) board of directors have determined that the current budget will support additional deployment, reported Community Networks. Areas specifically identified for expansion include Sanford, Accomac, Greenbackville, Atlantic, Wattsville/Horntown, Hallwood/Nelsonia, Oak Hall/New Church and Quinby. In mid-December, the ESVBA board will determine how to prioritize projects for each community.
As a next step, the Eastern Shore region is assessing whether to administer surveys before deciding which areas to begin deploying FTTH service. The board is also discussing marketing tactics for advertising the new service.
November 29, 2017
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