The award will allow Waitsfield-Champlain Valley Telecom to offer
high-speed broadband service in the counties of Addison, Chittenden and
Washington. In The Valley, according to company spokesperson Kurt
Gruendling, it will allow the company to improve internet speeds on
Lincoln Gap and West Hill Roads in Warren, on Butternut Hill and parts
of Route 100 south of it in Waitsfield and on Fuller Hill Road in East
Warren.
A press release from the USDA notes that "approximately 1,385 people
stand to benefit, as do roughly 56 businesses and two community
institutions. In addition to the jobs this project will support up
front, it will provide a foundation for economic growth and job creation
for decades to come."
Gruendling said Waitsfield Telecom was thrilled to receive the award and
said it would accelerate the company's eventual and ultimate transition
to fiber optic service. He said the company will put the grant money to
work quickly as it must be spent within two years.
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