A groundbreaking initiative will install 1,400 miles of broadband infrastructure across rural Georgia, boosting community access and modernizing traffic operations. Georgia is making significant strides in addressing the digital divide with a comprehensive broadband expansion project spanning 70 counties. The initiative will install 1,400 miles of broadband infrastructure, offering enhanced connectivity for underserved rural communities while modernizing the state’s transportation network.
A portion of this new infrastructure will be dedicated to the Georgia Department of Transportation’s (GDOT) traffic operations, enabling the deployment of advanced technologies such as connected vehicles and smart traffic systems. The remaining capacity will be reserved for commercial use, providing high-speed internet access to homes, businesses, and community facilities.
Dual Benefits: Bridging the Digital Divide and Modernizing Transportation
The project is a critical step toward reducing the digital divide in Georgia, where rural and underserved communities often lack access to reliable internet. Beyond improving connectivity, the initiative aims to enhance traffic operations by integrating smart technologies. This includes systems that monitor and manage traffic flows, improve road safety, and reduce congestion. “This expansion also brings with it the added benefit of modernizing our transportation infrastructure, enabling innovations like connected vehicles and smart traffic systems to improve safety and efficiency,” McMurry added.
Impact on Communities and Businesses
The commercial portion of the broadband network is expected to deliver faster and more reliable internet to households, schools, healthcare facilities, and businesses. Improved connectivity will empower communities by providing better access to educational resources, telehealth services, and online business opportunities. The expansion represents a chance for local businesses to tap into digital markets and improve operational efficiency. Residents in underserved areas will no longer have to rely on slow or inconsistent connections, leveling the playing field with urban centers.
Advancing Smart Transportation in Georgia
The GDOT’s portion of the broadband network will transform transportation systems across the state. Integrating connected vehicle technology and intelligent traffic management systems will make Georgia’s roadways safer and more efficient. Connected vehicles communicate with traffic infrastructure to provide real-time updates on road conditions, improving navigation and reducing accidents. Similarly, smart traffic systems can dynamically adjust signal timings to ease peak-hour congestion. “These advancements are not just about improving transportation—they’re about creating a smarter, more responsive infrastructure that benefits everyone on Georgia’s roads,” said McMurry.
Funding and Collaboration
The broadband expansion is part of a more significant state and federal effort to invest in critical infrastructure. Georgia has utilized funds from federal programs such as the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program and the American Rescue Plan Act to support the project. Partnerships between GDOT, local governments, and private sector providers have also been instrumental in bringing this initiative to fruition. These collaborations ensure that resources are effectively allocated and that the network meets the needs of diverse communities.
A Broader Vision for Connectivity
Georgia’s broadband expansion aligns with national goals to close the digital divide and enhance infrastructure resilience. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to ensure that rural and underserved areas are not left behind in an increasingly connected world. While 1,400 miles of broadband infrastructure is a significant step, officials emphasize that it is only the beginning. Future phases of the project aim to expand coverage further, ensuring that every Georgian has access to reliable high-speed internet. “We’re building a foundation for a future where connectivity and technology drive growth and innovation across Georgia,” said McMurry.
This dual-purpose broadband expansion project is more than an investment in infrastructure—it is a transformative initiative that will impact the lives of millions of Georgians. By addressing the digital divide and modernizing transportation systems, the state is setting a new standard for leveraging broadband as a tool for community and economic development.
