Madison County, New York, will receive $9,998,562 from the state’s ConnectALL Municipal Infrastructure Program to enhance broadband access for residents in the southern region. New York State Governor Kathy Hochul announced the funding on March 15, 2024, marking a significant step towards bridging the digital divide in the area.
Broadband Expansion Plans
The grant will primarily benefit the villages and towns of Cazenovia, Morrisville, New Woodstock, Hamilton, and Brookfield. This initiative aims to expand the ongoing Madison County Connect project, which is already supported by a $12.8 million USDA ReConnect grant received in 2021. The full project is estimated to cost $18.6 million, with contributions of $3.4 million from Madison County and $2.4 million from Empire Access.
Through a partnership with Empire Access, Madison County plans to construct 120 miles of fiber infrastructure. This expansion is expected to connect over 2,600 homes, businesses, and community institutions, providing them with high-quality and affordable internet service. The county will retain ownership of the network while Empire Access will operate it.
Project Timeline and Community Impact
The construction of the first phase of the Madison County Connect project, funded by the USDA, is projected to be completed by the end of 2025. Residents in areas such as Cazenovia, Chittenango, Oneida, and parts of Munnsville will soon have access to improved internet options through Empire Access.
“Madison County set out over six years ago to ensure that everyone in our community truly had access to reliable high-speed internet,” said Mark Scimone, Madison County Administrator.
Scimone emphasized the importance of reliable internet for education, healthcare, and leisure activities. “Everyone deserves the opportunity to be able to access high-speed, reliable internet. We are grateful to Governor Hochul for the ConnectALL funding so that we can make sure to serve even more of our Madison County residents and businesses,” he stated.
The overall project consists of three phases. Phase 1 will encompass areas including Sullivan, Chittenango, Lenox, Canastota, Lincoln, Oneida, Stockbridge, Fenner, Cazenovia, and Smithfield. Phase 2 is set to begin construction this winter, coinciding with the development of the ConnectALL portion, which aims to enhance connectivity in the northern half of the county.
For more information about the project phases, residents can visit the Madison County website.
