Brightspeed today announced that about 75 percent of its planned fiber build in South Carolina is complete, bringing multi-gig internet to more than 47,000 homes and businesses across the state.
Work continues across Beaufort, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Laurens, Orangeburg, and Saluda counties, with Ninety-Six showing early progress where roughly 20 percent of the fiber work has been completed. Ninety-Six Mayor Gregg Brown welcomed the investment, noting it will expand opportunities for residents, businesses and students while expressing appreciation for the partnership.
The company has undertaken active door-to-door outreach in communities including Beaufort, Ware Shoals, Eutawville, Greenwood, Holly Hill, and Saluda. Branded Brightspeed representatives speak with households about available plans and the advantages of fiber, an effort Brightspeed describes as part of its strategy to bridge the digital divide.
Brightspeed highlights its commitment to communities through sponsorships and local events, citing the SC Festival of Stars in Ninety-Six, the Beaufort Music Festival of the Lowcountry, and youth sports and seasonal celebrations as evidence of a broader presence beyond infrastructure installation.
Funding for the expansion comes from a mix of private investment and public grants, including more than $10,000 in additional state grant funding to extend coverage to 118 more locations and over $2 million in ARPA funds to deliver high-speed access to about 2,560 residents lacking service today. When completed, Brightspeed’s fiber service is projected to reach roughly 66,000 homes and businesses statewide.