Shentel Brings Internet Access to About 5,000 Homes in Bedford County, Virginia
The Virginia Telecommunication Initiative continues to support two more broadband projects in the county.
March 4, 2026 – Nearly 5,000 previously unserved homes in Bedford County, Virginia, now have access to gigabit broadband internet service.
Shenandoah Telecommunications Company (Shentel) announced that it completed its $24 million construction project Tuesday, which was partially funded by the Virginia Telecommunication Initiative (VATI), Shentel’s capital investment and Bedford County.
County Administrator Robert Hiss said Shentel’s efforts have continuously supported Bedford County’s board of supervisors’ goal of universal broadband access for both residents and businesses.
“We are delivering reliable, gigabit‑capable broadband to thousands of rural households that previously had little or no access,” said Chris Kyle, Shentel vice president of regulatory and industry affairs. “This investment will support economic growth, enhance educational opportunities, and ensure residents can fully participate in today’s digital economy—no matter where they live.”
Shentel has primarily served smaller markets and rural communities, which have allowed them to focus on fast and reliable internet, straight-forward pricing and local customer service. With the completed installation, the Town of Bedford, Cifax, Sedalia and Charlemont will have access to gigabit broadband.
Bedford County’s completed internet access project comes after “significant project delays” with RiverStreet Networks’ $20 million broadband contract. Originally set to start in March 2024 and finish in October 2025, the project is now set to be completed in June 2026. RiverStreet Network’s project was also a part of VATI, and would extend broadband access to Bedford County’s Huddleston, Lynch Station, Goode and New London.
There is also one additional ongoing Bedford County VATI project, through ZiTel LLC, contracted to expand internet to unserved and underserved areas in the southwestern quadrant of the county. The construction began in 2022 and is expected to be completed by July 2025.
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