Hardy Telecommunications, Inc., a nonprofit rural telephone cooperative, was recently awarded a $9,494,483 loan and a $22,153,791 grant through USDA Rural Development’s Telecommunications program. This funding was made available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Recovery Act).
The Hardy OneNet Fiber-to-the-Home project will provide affordable, reliable ultra-high speed Internet access, VoIP, and video services to underserved areas in Hardy County, West Virginia. It will be a turning point for underserved rural mountain communities, allowing instant access to share information and ideas with others across the world, and increase knowledge, productivity and prosperity.
Last month, Bobby Lewis, State Director for West Virginia USDA Rural Development, presented Hardy Telecommunications with a Certificate of Congratulations during a ceremony held at their Lost River, WV location.
Hardy Telecommunications General Manager D. Scott Sherman opened the ceremony with the Pledge of Allegiance and background information on this project and the future of the organization.
A tour of Hardy Telecommunications facility followed the ceremony. During the tour, the general manager explained the dynamics of their operation and helped those on the tour envision what this funding will accomplish.
President Obama signed the Recovery Act to jumpstart the nation's economy, create or save millions of jobs, and put a down payment on addressing long-neglected challenges so our country can thrive in the 21st century. Vice President Biden yesterday announced additional broadband awards to provide service to 37 states. More information is available here.