Broadband Recovery Program

The Broadband Recovery Program was established in Session Law 2025-89 and provides funding to rebuild, repair or replace broadband infrastructure damaged by Hurricane Helene. The program, made possible through an appropriation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds by Governor Josh Stein and the N.C. General Assembly, aims to restore and strengthen high-speed internet access for communities in western North Carolina that suffered significant damage from the storm.

Through the program, internet service providers with infrastructure projects in the 39 counties designated under a disaster declaration for Hurricane Helene, including the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, could apply for funding for reconstruction or repair broadband infrastructure needed to connect residents, businesses and community institutions to reliable high-speed internet. The Broadband Recovery Program prioritizes funding for the restoration of broadband service.

Eligible Providers

Based on the application submissions received in November 2025, the following 16 broadband providers are eligible to submit reimbursement requests through this program: 

  • Barnardsville Telephone Company (RiverStreet Networks)
  • BellSouth Telecommunications, LLC (AT&T North Carolina)
  • Citizens Telephone Company (Comporium Communications)
  • Connect Holding II, LLC (Brightspeed)
  • CSC NC, LLC (Optimum)
  • ERC Broadband, LLC
  • Foothills Broadband, LLC
  • Frontier Communications of the Carolinas, LLC
  • Northland Cable Television, Inc. (Vyve Broadband)
  • Saluda Mountain Telephone Company (RiverStreet Networks)
  • Skyrunner, Inc. 
  • SkyBest Communications, Inc.
  • Skyline Telephone Membership Corporation
  • Spectrum Southeast, LLC
  • Wilkes Telephone Membership Corporation (RiverStreet Networks)
  • Zito West Holding, LLC (Zito Media)

Resource Documents for Applicants:

Questions?

Questions about the program can be sent to technicalassistance@nc.gov. 
 

Off