News Summary
Comcast has completed a broadband network expansion in Greenwood, SC, providing high-speed internet access to over 1,200 residents. The $6.1 million project, funded by the American Rescue Plan, includes donations for digital literacy classes and free laptops for students. Local officials commend the initiative as a significant step in enhancing digital equity and supporting community growth.
Greenwood, South Carolina — Comcast has successfully completed a significant broadband network expansion in Greenwood, providing access to high-speed internet for over 1,200 residents who previously lacked adequate connectivity. The project, which cost $6.1 million, was made possible through funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds. The launch of the new network was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and community block party, underscoring the importance of this achievement for local residents.
The expansion is part of Comcast’s commitment to enhancing digital equity in communities across the nation, aligning with the company’s $1 billion initiative aimed at improving internet access and digital literacy. As a demonstration of its support for the Greenwood community, Comcast donated $10,000 to the Boys & Girls Club of the Lakeland Region to fund digital literacy classes, further emphasizing its investment in the digital future of local residents.
In addition to financial contributions, Comcast also provided 50 free laptops to students, facilitating their access to digital learning resources. The Boys & Girls Club will also introduce a “Lift Zone” that offers free Wi-Fi for youth, ensuring they have the necessary support for their educational needs.
Local officials have expressed strong support for this broadband expansion. Jim Stritzinger, director of South Carolina’s statewide broadband office, highlighted the vital role of broadband access for education, business development, and overall community progress. Greenwood Mayor Brandon Smith described the initiative as a “gamechanger,” indicating its anticipated positive impact on the region.
Comcast’s broadband offerings include high-speed internet as well as mobile and security services available through its Xfinity and Comcast Business brands. These services will equip local businesses with essential tools for connectivity, communication, networking, cybersecurity, and wireless solutions, thereby fostering economic growth in the area. The enhanced connectivity will also benefit critical community organizations such as hospitals and schools, making them more resilient and connected.
In the past three years alone, Comcast has contributed a total of $1.3 million in in-kind donations to South Carolina non-profits, aimed at enhancing digital skills among residents. This emphasizes the company’s ongoing commitment to creating partnerships that benefit local communities and foster digital readiness.
To facilitate immediate access to broadband services, residents are encouraged to sign up for Comcast’s offerings through various channels, including phone, online platforms, and community events. The launch event included entertainment, food, and activities designed to engage families and encourage community involvement in the new services.
Overall, the completion of the broadband expansion in Greenwood signals a positive step toward bridging the digital divide for many residents, providing them with reliable internet access essential for education, work, and connection to the wider community.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Comcast Expands Broadband Access in Greenwood County
Comcast Expands Broadband Services in Greenwood, SC
Broadband Expansion Boosts Connectivity in Greenwood, SC
Comcast Invests $6.1 Million in Greenwood, SC Broadband Expansion
Greenwood County Secures $11.6 Million for Fiber-Optic Expansion
U.S. Court of Appeals Overturns Net Neutrality Rules
Additional Resources
- Index Journal: Comcast’s $6.1M Broadband Expansion
- BBC Mag: Comcast Completes Network Expansion in Greenwood
- PR Newswire: Comcast Connecting Homes and Businesses
- The Fast Mode: Comcast’s Five-Year Price Lock for Xfinity Internet
- Lightwave: Comcast Broadband Expansion Efforts
- Wikipedia: Broadband in the United States
- Google Search: Importance of Broadband Access
- Google Scholar: Digital Equity in Communities
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Broadband
- Google News: Comcast Greenwood Expansion
Author: HERE Greenwood
The GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGreenwood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Greenwood, Greenwood County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Flowers, Greenwood Community Theatre performances, and agricultural showcases at the Greenwood County Fairgrounds. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Greenwood United Ministry, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as FujiFilm Manufacturing and Self Regional Healthcare. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
