COLUMBUS, Ohio — Portions of the Scioto Valley will receive new support to expand broadband access as Ohio officials announced more than $6.3 million in reimbursements to internet providers for infrastructure upgrades.
The funding, approved by the Broadband Expansion Authority, comes through the state’s Broadband Pole Replacement and Undergrounding Program, which helps providers cover the costs of replacing utility poles and undergrounding lines in underserved areas.
Charter Communications submitted applications totaling nearly $5.9 million to support projects in Highland, Hocking, Jackson, Pickaway, Ross, and Vinton counties. South Central Power applied for $244,710 to support work in Highland County. Southern Ohio Communications Company will receive $92,881 for projects in Adams and Scioto counties.
“Having affordable, high‑speed internet is a necessity for every Ohioan, regardless of where they live,” Gov. Mike DeWine said in a statement. “By helping internet service providers with infrastructure costs, we’re ensuring that reliable networks can reach every rural town and underserved neighborhood to bridge the digital divide across the state.”
Officials said this round of reimbursements exhausts the program’s remaining funds. Since 2024, more than $31 million has been awarded to replace poles and underground lines, serving more than 13,000 Ohioans.