Spectrum on Thursday announced the launch of Spectrum Internet, Mobile, TV and Voice services to more than 2,400 homes and small businesses in rural and previously unserved parts of McMinn, Bradley and Polk counties.
Activation of new services is made possible by two major projects and Spectrum’s investment. The first is the Federal Communications Commission’s Rural Digital Opportunity Fund. Spectrum’s RDOF expansion will provide broadband access to 1.3 million customer locations across 24 states in the coming years. The second is state grants awarded through the Tennessee Emergency Broadband Fund – American Rescue Plan program.
“Our investment is making it possible to deliver the high-value broadband, mobile, TV and voice services now available in McMinn, Bradley and Polk counties,” said Craig Loden, vice president, leading Spectrum’s rural construction in Tennessee. “We are providing local residents and small businesses superior connectivity at highly competitive prices, backed by a team of skilled local technicians and 100 percent U.S.-based customer service.”
"Access to reliable, quick, and affordable internet is essential to businesses, entrepreneurs, educators and students,” said U.S. Rep. Chuck Fleischmann. “Since I came to Congress, one of my highest priorities has been working with public-private partners to expand broadband so every East Tennessean can access the internet, which is a critical necessity. I thank the FCC and Spectrum for bringing broadband services to more than 2,400 previously unserved locations in Bradley, McMinn and Polk counties. As East Tennessee’s Congressman, I promise to continue working with stakeholders throughout government and great partners like Spectrum to continue expanding broadband access.”
Spectrum Internet delivers speeds up to 1 Gbps and Advanced WiFi for residential and small business customers, featuring starting speeds of 300 Mbps, with no modem fees, data caps or contracts. Spectrum Business Internet offers customers 1 Gbps download speeds, with 300 Mbps and 600 Mbps options. The company has also begun a network evolution that will provide gigabit upstream speeds and multiple gigabit download speeds across its entire 41-state service area.
“Spectrum has been a great partner for our rural communities,” said state Rep. Mark Cochran. “Access to their services will enhance the lives of many citizens in outlying, underserved areas.”
Spectrum Internet exceeded advertised download and upload speeds for all tiers measured — even during peak weeknight usage between 7 and 11 p.m. — according to the FCC’s most recent “Measuring Broadband America Fixed Broadband Report” issued in January 2023.
“Tennessee’s District 22 families and businesses have long-awaited 100 percent broadband access,” said state Rep. Dan Howell. “Spectrum’s network expansion through the federal RDOF program is helping bring us closer to closing the digital divide once and for all.”