Wecom's Ambitious Broadband Project in Prescott
Community leaders and Wecom officials recently marked an exciting moment in Prescott with the beginning of construction on a new high-speed fiber broadband network. This project aims to enhance internet access for residents and businesses within the region.
Investment and Commitment to the Community
Wecom’s $38 million initiative is entirely privately funded, ensuring no taxpayer money has gone into this vital service. Upon completion, it is expected to connect around 26,000 homes and businesses in Prescott, demonstrating Wecom's commitment to enhancing connectivity in the area.
Ceremony Highlights
The groundbreaking ceremony took place on historic Whiskey Row, where dozens attended to witness the celebration that included a ceremonial ribbon-cutting. This event highlighted the connectivity and innovation that the new network promises to bring to Prescott.
Community Benefits of Wecom Fiber
"Wecom's ultra-fast fiber broadband will significantly benefit Everybody's Hometown," said Prescott Vice Mayor Connie Cantelme. She expressed enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing that it comes at no cost to the city. With the Prescott City Council unanimously approving Wecom's fiber installation license, the way has been paved for multi-gigabit Internet speeds—ideal for streaming and other bandwidth-intensive activities.
Anticipated Expansion of Services
Wecom's CEO, Paul Fleming, shared his excitement about this game-changing service, ensuring that residents, employers, students, and telehealth users will have access to some of the fastest internet services available. Construction is expected to wrap up by early 2027, although many residents may begin subscribing to the service much earlier.
Addressing the Digital Divide in Arizona
State Representative Selina Bliss spoke at the event, emphasizing the importance of reliable and rapid broadband for rural areas. She noted this project is vital for bridging the digital divide. Yavapai County leaders echoed her sentiments, highlighting Wecom’s ongoing commitment to provide high-quality broadband across the county.
Ongoing Projects and Future Initiatives
Wecom continues to be active in bringing fiber broadband to various communities throughout Yavapai County, having recently been awarded an $8.1 million grant. This will allow them to provide service to about 6,500 homes in rural or unincorporated areas.
The Role of Wecom in Local Economic Growth
Sheri Heiney, the President and CEO of the Prescott Chamber of Commerce, remarked on how vital high-speed internet is for local businesses. With many relying extensively on online services to connect with customers, Wecom's significant investment into the community will provide Prescott businesses with a competitive edge.
A Long Road of Growth for Wecom
Wecom has a rich history, founded nearly 70 years ago in Kingman as a telecommunications provider. Today, it has established itself as a leader in fiber broadband across rural Arizona, focusing on connecting underserved communities to high-speed internet access.
Outside of Prescott, Wecom is expanding services in Prescott Valley and across multiple counties, illustrating its broader commitment to closing the digital gap in Arizona. Their ongoing and future projects, including a $45 million fiber network in Flagstaff, further emphasize their dedication.
About Wecom
Wecom Fiber is a leading provider of high-speed broadband services, reliably deploying networks across various regions. With a strong presence in cities like Phoenix and Kingman, Wecom is dedicated to fostering connectivity and growth through innovative technology solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Wecom Fiber's broadband project about?
Wecom Fiber is constructing a high-speed broadband network in Prescott, aiming to serve approximately 26,000 homes and businesses.
How much is the project costing?
The project is privately financed and will cost a total of $38 million.
When will the construction be completed?
Construction is expected to be completed by early 2027, with service available to many locations before that date.
What benefits will the new fiber network provide?
The network will enable ultra-fast internet speeds, essential for online streaming, telehealth, and remote work.
Who is Wecom Fiber?
Wecom is a long-established telecommunications provider focused on delivering fiber-to-the-premises broadband across rural Arizona.
