Spectrum Awarded Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund Grant for Tuscaloosa County, Alabama

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Spectrum today announced it has been awarded a $2.4 million Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund (ABAF) grant to bring gigabit high-speed internet access to more than 2,200 unserved homes and small businesses in Tuscaloosa County. Spectrum has committed to invest more than $8.8 million on the expansion project, bringing total investment to more than $11.2 million.

The Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund (ABAF) grant in Tuscaloosa County is one of four grants awarded to Spectrum to expand fiber-optic broadband infrastructure to areas of the state that currently lack access to high-speed connections. The ABAF Grants are offered and distributed through the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs. “In today’s world, an internet connection spurs new forms of economic development, and that’s why I’m excited for what’s to come as Spectrum expands its high-speed internet network to unconnected parts of Tuscaloosa County communities – reaching more than 2,200 homes and businesses,” said state Sen. Gerald Allen.

Overall, Spectrum has committed to invest nearly $35 million to extend its broadband network in Tuscaloosa, Bibb, Shelby and Winston counties. Combined with $6.7 million in ABAF grants, Spectrum’s investment in the projects totals nearly $41.7 million and will help connect more than 9,800 homes and small businesses across those Alabama counties.

“The Commission is pleased with today’s announcement that Spectrum will be improving connectivity and expanding broadband services to over 2,000 households across the county” said Probate Judge Rob Robertson. “Access to broadband is critical in today’s world, and in a fast-growing county like ours, it is all the more important.”

“Gov. Ivey, her administration and the Alabama Legislature have shown tremendous leadership in embracing public-private partnerships as a vital strategy for connecting unserved communities,” said Marva Johnson, Group Vice President of Government Affairs at Charter Communications, which operates the Spectrum brand of connectivity services. “These grants build upon Spectrum’s commitments and capabilities as one of Alabama’s largest broadband providers to further close the digital divide.”

Spectrum Internet has been consecutively ranked as one of the best internet service providers by U.S. News & World Report, and also earned the highest rating among the Best Internet Service Providers for Rural Areas. Spectrum Internet also 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.

Spectrum also was a day one participant in the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which makes quality, high-speed internet service available at a low — or even at no — cost to eligible families in financial need. All Spectrum Internet plans are eligible for ACP credits, and because customers aren’t locked into a contract, families can always choose the right broadband plan to meet their changing needs.

Along with multiple broadband options, Spectrum services now available also include Spectrum Mobile^™ and Spectrum TV^®. Spectrum Mobile combines with Spectrum Internet and Advanced Home WiFi to provide seamless connectivity inside and outside the home. Spectrum Mobile provides customers access to nationwide 5G at great value, with new Unlimited lines starting at $29.99 a month, as well as By The Gig options. Spectrum TV offers more than 200 HD channels and access to 85,000 On Demand movies and shows. Using the Spectrum TV App, viewers can stream content across a growing number of platforms, including iOS and Android mobile devices, Xbox One, Kindle Fire, Samsung Smart TVs, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku, XUMO TVs and PCs.

About Spectrum

Spectrum is a suite of advanced communications services offered by Charter Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ:CHTR), a leading broadband connectivity company and cable operator serving more than 32 million customers in 41 states. Over an advanced communications network, the company offers a full range of state-of-the-art residential and business services including Spectrum Internet^®, TV, Mobile and Voice.

For small and medium-sized companies, Spectrum Business^® delivers the same suite of broadband products and services coupled with special features and applications to enhance productivity, while for larger businesses and government entities, Spectrum Enterprise provides highly customized, fiber-based solutions. Spectrum Reach^® delivers tailored advertising and production for the modern media landscape. The company also distributes award-winning news coverage and sports programming to its customers through Spectrum Networks. More information about Charter can be found at corporate.charter.com.

Media Contact

Patti Michel

patti.michel@charter.com