Williamson County, Tennessee, plots new broadband projects using American Rescue Plan Act funding

The Williamson County (TN) Commission stated its willingness to help fund broadband internet projects in the county in two resolutions approved unanimously March 14. The money would come from the over $46 million Williamson County is slated to receive in American Rescue Plan funds meant to provide relief from the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. The Tennessee Department of Economic Development's Broadband Division is awarding up to $400 million of state American Rescue Plan funds for an emergency broadband fund. State funds would cover up to 70 percent of approved broadband projects, while providers would be responsible for the remaining 30 percent. In the resolutions, the commissioners indicated the county is eager to help providers cover their portion. Five broadband providers — Comcast, United Communications, Charter Communications, AT&T and Conexon — have expressed interest in building new infrastructure in the county. United and Comcast have requested support from the county alongside the state. If the providers are awarded grants, the county will provide a maximum of around $1.7 million or 10 percent of Comcast's project and no more than $3 million or 15 percent of United's project.