Bray visits Endeavor to learn of rural broadband expansion efforts

Friday, November 2, 2018
State Sen. Rodric Bray (left) meets with Endeavor Communications CEO Darin LaCoursiere recently at Endeavor headquarters in Cloverdale.
Courtesy photo

CLOVERDALE — With an interest in building broadband infrastructure for the long term, District 37 State Sen. Rodric Bray (R-Martinsville) recently visited Endeavor Communications.

Bray asked questions regarding ways to make the state expansion of rural broadband go further. Stories of children without sufficient access to broadband to do their homework illustrate the need for expanded broadband service.

Future proofing of technology was a theme of the meeting. Sen. Bray and Endeavor CEO Darin LaCoursiere looked at ways to anticipate how to coordinate future fiber infrastructure issues.

“Keeping costs low by encouraging companies to work together helps avoid overbuilding areas by duplicating service,” LaCoursiere said. “Creating standards for companies receiving grant allocations might include the experience of the company, its financial standing, knowledge of the industry and their willingness to work with others.”

The standards used could help the state allocate funds to companies that can help with technological infrastructure investments. Coordinated future planning will help funds to last longer and reach more residents.

“It was made clear throughout my visit that Endeavor is highly committed to invest in rural broadband for business and community well-being, and I commend them for the extent to which they are reinvesting in the areas they serve,” Bray said.

Endeavor shared a presentation in which $110 million was invested in fiber services.

The company has reached out to approximately 16,300 people who already do or could enjoy the benefits of fiber internet.

“Connecting communities is the bottom line,” Bray said.

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