BrightRidge, TDECD expands broadband access in Washington and Greene

CIUDAD DE JOHNSON — More than 2,000 rural residents and businesses now have access to nation-leading BrightRidge Broadband following completion this month of a Middle Mile grant project in partnership with the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development Broadband Office.

The $9.54 million construction project reaches 2,067 BrightRidge Electric customers in Fall Branch, South Central, Lamar, Bowmantown, Buckingham Road and Mill Springs in Washington and Greene counties.

With access to symmetrical 10 Gig fiber service, these communities now have affordable connectivity at speeds and service levels that exceed what is available in most American communities.

“Completing this Middle Mile grant project is a major milestone for BrightRidge and for the communities we serve,” said BrightRidge CEO Jeff Dykes. “For these residents and businesses, dependable high-speed broadband was not available. This investment closes that gap with advanced fiber infrastructure.”

The Middle Mile project capped another year of strong growth for Broadband. In addition to the grant-funded areas, BrightRidge extended its network to another 2,829 homes and businesses in neighborhoods and businesses adjacent to the existing BrightRidge Broadband network.

When BrightRidge launched its Broadband division in 2019, BrightRidge consultants projected passing 41,260 locations by July 2026. Broadband closed the period with 55,034 locations passed, nearly 13,000 locations more than projected.

“BrightRidge Broadband was created to give our region a locally centered, future-ready broadband option,” Dykes said. “The results show what can happen when careful planning, disciplined deployment and community support come together.”

Through July 2027, BrightRidge will focus construction on a new $1.65 million BEAD (Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment) grant with TDECD extending service to 488 locations in eastern Washington County.

 Aside from grants, BrightRidge has programmed sufficient capital to extend broadband service to another 1,200 locations adjacent to its existing network in the next 12 months.

Since founding, BrightRidge Broadband has maintained a focused commitment to access and providing reliable service with competitive rates and always local support.

“Our mission has not changed,” Dykes said. “We are committed to extending service to every BrightRidge customer. We are building and operating broadband infrastructure that strengthens communities, supports families and businesses, and keeps our region connected for the long term.”

Customers can learn more about BrightRidge Broadband availability and services at MyBrightRidge.com or by contacting customer service at 423-952-5000.