SALEM, Ala. (WTVM) – The wait for internet service is over for some rural East Alabama residents while others without it are still facing the challenges with little to no service
The Lee County Commission has used money from the American Rescue Plan Act to pay for internet access for rural residents, and officials said the Salem portion of the project is complete.
“You should be able to just stay in your home, be able to monitor your home, with internet, but you know, we can’t,” said Lakiesha Young-Hicks.
The Lee County Commission voted to allocate $4.3 million of American Rescue Plan Act funds to high-speed internet in rural areas of Lee County with nearly no internet capabilities. The county designated four areas to bring access:
Lochapoka, Salem, South Central, and East Central Lee County
.
At the recent county commission gathering, Lee County Chief Administrative Officer Holly Leverette mentioned that the part of the project related to Salem has been completed.
“I’m simply delighted that they’re implementing this here because it will bring joy to many people. Spectrum didn’t reach as far as we wanted. This change will really make an impact,” stated Madison Harrison.
Harrison is a lifelong Salem resident. He said they can get internet through their phone, but based on conditions, it will either be slow or not connect at all.
It used to be terrible, and occasionally you wouldn’t receive anything,” Harrison stated. “And make sure no storms came up, because then you definitely wouldn’t get it at all.
Among the remaining projects to be finished is the development of the Lochapoka region. Young-Hicks continues to represent Lochapoka’s interests at the commission gatherings.
As she puts it, it’s no longer merely about convenience; it has become essential for security purposes.
We’ve encountered dubious vehicles and individuals damaging street signs. My cameras would be helpful for capturing these cars passing by my house, which could provide valuable info to the sheriff,” she explained. “However, my internet connection is limited to just six megabytes. Sometimes I manage to access it via my phone, but often times I’m unable to.
The county commission stated that construction has started on the South Central and East Central initiatives. The Lochapoka project is anticipated to commence at the start of September.
Every project should be finished by December 2026.