A broadband expansion project in Bedford County is moving forward after months of struggle to find a company to do the work.
County Commissioners had to reject the only bid they received for the project in September and were uncertain of when the project could get underway, having to reopen bids.
At Tuesday’s regular meeting, Commissioners awarded the bid for the Broadband Infrastructure Project to Cottle’s Asphalt, Inc. They said an acceptable bid finally came their way after the project engineers reached out and made calls to multiple local companies.
Bedford County Commissioner Deb Baughman said she’s pleased the work can stay local.
“We’ve dealt with Cottle’s before on many other projects. We know they’re a reputable company. They’re well known here in the community. They’ll do a great job,” Baughman said.
The towers will primarily expand broadband internet access to the area, but cell phone companies will be able to add their equipment to the tower, opening the possibility for cell phone service expansion in the area as well. Commissioners said T-Mobile has already expressed interest.
The deadline for the towers to be completed is the end of October 2026.
