Encouraged by the progress on one of his longstanding legislative priorities, Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush (R,C,I-Black River) today applauded a new, targeted state investment he helped bring back to Lewis County- expanded broadband access.

Three new service providers have pledged to cover all areas that were slated to receive broadband by Mohawk Networks before it pulled out of its contract with the state.

“This is a sound investment,” said Blankenbush. “Broadband is needed infrastructure. This sends a strong message to our business community. This sends a strong message to our educators. This sends a strong message to every taxpayer who works hard and deserves quality services that are available across the state- we hear you. This has been one of my top priorities for years, and I’m glad to see this moving forward.”

Blankenbush said he will be monitoring these projects closely. A trio of providers, Frontier Communications, SLIC Network Solutions and Hughes Network System, will provide access in Lewis County.

“After the deal with Mohawk Networks fell apart, many people, including me, were extremely frustrated. We’re thrilled that we’ve been able to replace them. These companies are getting taxpayer dollars, so were going to be holding them accountable and we’re going to be vigilant. That doesn’t just mean they have to provide access where they say they will, it means that it must be as fast and as reliable as they’re promising,” said Blankenbush.

Mohawk Networks received no state dollars after it pulled out of the deal.

Blankenbush noted that thousands of consumers are set to receive state-of-the-art fiber optic connections.