The Escambia County Commission will receive $61.7 million in American Rescue Plan funds. The commissioners approved a plan today to spend $22 million of to a 10GB fiber backbone throughout the county, providing the ability to provide broadband internet to underserved citizens and businesses. A portion of the fiber can be leased to internet service providers, creating revenue streams. In addition, it’s estimated that using the fiber could save the county over $1.6 million per year by eliminating microwave contacts and leased circuits for the BOCC, 911, sheriff and tax collector.
Commissioner Steve Barry has championed the effort and shared more details on 1370 WCOA today.