Photo: Senator Mark. R. Warner

In partnership with Dominion Energy (Dominion), Central Virginia Electric Cooperative (CVEC), and Rappanock Electric Cooperative (REC), Firefly Fiber Broadband (Firefly) has made 4,700 rural connection dreams come to life since the project started.

The Louisa County partnership, comprising Firefly, CVEC, REC, Dominion, and S&N Communications, convened for a celebratory luncheon at Fifty-Third Winery on Friday, February 23rd, to mark their accomplishments. Senator Mark R. Warner, speaking on behalf of the initiative, joined Chairman of the Louisa County Board, Duane Adams, and President & CEO of CVEC & Firefly, Gary Wood, at the event.

“When are we gonna get to 13,000?” Senator Warner inquired of Wood, to which he replied, “At the speed of light.”

Despite the rainy weather, the luncheon was a joyous occasion, featuring photo opportunities with Firefly’s mascot, “Flash,” and a catered lunch provided by S&N Communications’ mechanics. Though attendees initially wondered about the caterers, they were pleasantly surprised to learn it was their own mechanics, led by fleet director DJ Thomas. Senator Warner’s speech was eagerly anticipated, but the BBQ spread and wine selection also garnered praise, showcasing the culinary talents of the fleet crew. When asked how often they cater events, Thomas said “about ten times a year,” with leftover food provided in to-go boxes for attendees.

The internet celebration symbolized the realization of dreams, the power of collaboration, and the fulfillment of the American dream in rural Virginia.

In 2017, CVEC identified numerous members with access to power but lacking internet connectivity. Despite encountering skepticism from internet providers regarding the viability of rural internet, they persisted. By 2018, fiber became a reality, with expansion efforts extending beyond CVEC’s electric footprint. Presently, Firefly operates in 13 Virginia counties, including Goochland, Fluvanna, Madison, and Louisa. Virginia, along with Louisiana, are the top two states in the country for internet connectivity.

Firefly has a universal commitment to Louisa to provide internet availability by 2025, championed by Chairman Duane Adams.

The journey to deliver fiber broadband involves 12 steps, from conception to delivery, encompassing data, design, mapping, construction, service drops, and installation. While S&N has labored for six years to install internet, not all residents will immediately benefit from the service.

The transformation of high-speed internet in Louisa reflects the dedication of individuals like Wood and Chairman Adams.

“It has been a collaborative effort,” said Adams, reflecting on the journey from dream to reality. “In Louisa County, we have a vision. We were one of the very first counties in VA to partner with our electric providers and Firefly… When we started with that, there were people that didn’t think we could do it.”

Adams further emphasized the groundbreaking nature of their efforts, acknowledging individuals like Gary Wood, whose vision and commitment have been instrumental in driving progress.

“1800 miles of fiber, the project is 44% done,” stated Adams, underscoring the significant strides made. “It is exciting to me that this dream is becoming a reality… Right now, we are going to be bringing connections to 13,000 homes and businesses in Louisa County, with over 5,000 locations already completed. I passed crews in the weather today and they were out there working in the rail to deliver on that promise. Its an exciting time in Louisa County, its an exciting time in central Virginia.”

Bob Miller, owner of Small Country campground, attested to Firefly’s impact, enabling the facility to engage 40,000 yearly campers and vie for the title of best campground in Virginia.

Wood emphasized the significance of fiber optics, likening data transmission to the speed of light and highlighting Firefly’s progress in deploying miles of fiber and connecting numerous homes.

Senator Warner commended the attendees as “broadband nerds” and stressed the pivotal role of internet connectivity in advancing modern agriculture and economic opportunities. “Long term value fruition… it will bring and attract good quality opportunities, and will give your kids at least the choice to stay in this community if they want to.” Said Warner. 

Firefly and S&N Communications continue to install 200 new connections weekly, ensuring the long-term value and prosperity of Louisa County. “There are going to be a host of problems,” said Warner. “But we are going to get them right in Virginia.”

Senator Warner underscored the importance of executing broadband initiatives effectively, positioning Virginia as a national leader in bridging the digital divide.

To keep up with the construction progress, see the current fiber timeline here.

Jen Bailey

Hi! I’m Jennifer Bailey and I partner with entrepreneurs who have massive ideas that could change the world. Most marketing is meaningless. Filled with empty promises, its only job is to bring in new traffic, new leads, and new customers. But I’ve drawn a line in the sand, and I’ve learned that marketing can do so much more than reach business goals and build profit. My methods give businesses the fire and soul they need to reach the right people, set the groundwork for sustainable relationships, and offer true value to the people on both the giving and receiving ends of marketing.

Read more about me here