Cox Communication partnering with New Kent for internet expansion project

New Kent County leadership, New Kent County’s Educational Foundation, and Cox Communications announced a fiber-optic network expansion in the county that plans to provide 100 percent fiber network in the county.

The Oct. 17 press release announces that the project will be conducted in two phases. Phase one will deliver Cox Fiber internet to approximately 3,000 residents that do not have broadband access by the end of 2024. Phase two will connect the remaining residents and businesses to ensure everyone in the county has access to the new fiber network.

“Bridging the digital divide is a priority for New Kent County and I’m pleased we could partner together with Cox to reach universal broadband coverage,” said New Kent County Board of Supervisors Chairman Tommy Tiller Jr. “As one of the fastest growing counties in Virginia, this partnership will ensure all New Kent County residents and businesses have the tools to thrive in the future.”

Together, the two phases represent a combined $34 million investment, with $16.1 million contributed from the county and an additional $17.8 million pumped out by Cox. The project will build out 625 fiber miles across New Kent, with plans to provide every household and business in the county access to the Internet by 2026.

Cox Communications also presented a $10,000 donation to New Kent Educational Foundation, with the funds going to New Kent Elementary School to provide students and teachers with access to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) equipment to support their learning journey.