Delaware has awarded Fibertech Networks a $1 million grant to expand rural broadband access.
Currently, Fibertech operates more than 300 miles of fiber optic network throughout Delaware, from Wilmington through Dover, Georgetown and into Millsboro. The company will build upon this investment through this grant to further expand its network, building approximately 18 miles of new network to Seaford in the west and approximately 18 miles of new network to Lewes on the east.
Both network segments will connect in Georgetown and therefore offer connectivity to Fibertech’s existing network infrastructure running through Kent and New Castle Counties with further connectivity to Philadelphia, New Jersey and Baltimore.
“Online tools and resources exponentially increase the possibilities to advance education, careers, business growth, and public safety, which means better quality of life and a stronger economy,” said Delaware Governor Jack Markell. “But that also means there is a clear dividing line in today’s society between those who have access to high-speed broadband and those who don’t.”
Fibertech recently merged with Lightower Fiber Networks,in an all cash transaction valued at $1.9 billion.
Lightower’s existing financial backers, Berkshire Partners, Pamlico Capital and ABRY Partners, will each provide additional equity to support the transaction. The combined company will be led by current Lightower CEO, Rob Shanahan.
The combined company will own and operate a fiber-based network throughout the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic and Midwest.
Lightower and Fibertech both currently offer fiber-based service portfolios comprised of Ethernet, dark fiber, wavelengths, Internet access, private networks and colocation services.
Current Lightower Fiber Networks investors include Berkshire Partners, Pamlico Capital, and ABRY Partners. Current Fibertech Networks investors include Court Square Capital Partners.