USDA Reconnect Project Underway

EMPOWER Broadband, Inc. commenced construction earlier this week on an extensive United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) ReConnect broadband project in northern Halifax County that will make service available to 207 additional residences with world-class broadband internet and VOIP telephone services. This 18-mile project will expand mainline fiber from the previously constructed backbone located in Crystal Hill.  This project will begin along Howard P. Anderson Rd. (Route 626) at Crystal Hill Rd., turning and following Hunting Creek Rd. (603) towards Mount Laurel Rd. (746).  Construction will also branch off Hunting Creek Rd. at Clarkton Rd. (626) and follow the three-phase electric lines to the Mason Trl. intersection.  

Over the coming months, EMPOWER will be working to complete this mainline project with an expected completion date near year-end.  Having said that, please know that this this project does require permitting and railroad crossings, which could delay the construction process. However, crews will continue to complete the remaining construction until approvals for the crossing are granted.  Below you can view the construction phase timeline.

As the project progresses, EMPOWER will be sending out informational packets to the homes that will be eligible for service through this project; early enrollments will allow crews to expedite the buildout process and bring service to your home sooner.  To check if your home is eligible for service with this project, or others, please visit empowermec.net and click “Check Availability.” This link also allows you to register your interest, which helps EMPOWER plan future projects.