ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – Officials in Orange County are announcing an expansion of broadband connectivity for the communities of South Apopka, Bithlo and Christmas.
With the rollout of the initiative, more than 1,300 addresses in previously unserved areas now have access to high-speed internet.
“Providing internet services to rural areas has been a challenge all over the United States,” Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings said. “When we’re able to bring high-speed internet into the various areas, that helps to level the playing field.”
The expansion was made possible through funding from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 and a partnership with Charter Communications, according to Demings.
Barbara Barnes, who lives in South Apopka, said the expansion will have a big impact for many in her community.
“We definitely need the high-speed internet, especially when you’re going online trying to do job searches and different things. You’ve got to have it,” Barnes said.
With many lower-income areas included in the initiative, there are affordability options for families who need help with finances.
“Any resident that signs up within the first year of availability for three years gets that price protected at $19.99 if they meet those low income requirements,” Charter Communications Group Vice President Marva Johnson said.
County leaders said efforts were ongoing to identify additional unserved areas in Orange County and work will happen to bridge the digital divide in those communities.
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