Shenandoah Telecommunications Company, i.e. Shentel (NASDAQ: SHEN), announced on Dec. 14 that it will upgrade its current network in Radford, Virginia to fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) broadband technology and services.
Shentel will fully fund the new multimillion-dollar construction project that will bring symmetrical multi-gig internet speeds to Radford residents and businesses.
According to a press release, construction of the new network will begin in the second half of 2023, bringing FTTH connections to the vast majority of homes and businesses throughout the city by the end of 2024.
"It has been a priority to enhance the quality and availability of internet service in Radford over the last several years and we could not be more pleased that Shentel is improving and growing their network here," commented Radford Mayor David Horton. "We look forward to this significant development for the good of the community."
Fiber enables multi-gigabit internet access with symmetrical upload and download speeds. The operator notes the new fiber outlay will provide Radford subscribers with a reliable, high-bandwidth connection that can handle multiple devices within a home or business without buffering while streaming, gaming or video conferencing. Optional wall-to-wall WiFi service will be available, allowing customers to connect anywhere in their home or business.
Radford residents will receive communication by mail approximately 30 days prior to construction activity in their neighborhoods.
"We are pleased with the investment Shentel is making in the City of Radford and the overall upgrade in broadband service reliability, availability and speed," said Radford city manager David Ridpath.
Via its 8,000-mile regional fiber network, Shentel notes it can ensure all subscribers high speeds, low latency, and increased reliability.
"Shentel's fiber business has been growing exponentially over the last couple of years and we are proud to continue this growth in our existing markets as well," concluded Chris Kyle, VP of Industry Affairs & Regulatory at Shentel. "Radford has been a fantastic partner over the last 12 years since we first offered service in the city. We hope this significant investment will help drive further economic development in the city and surrounding area."
Previously this year, Shentel fiber network construction crews and plans going under the moniker of Glo Fiber have been seen on the move in Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Maryland.
