press releases
In the summer of 2016, Pineland Telephone began the application process to become a Smart Rural Community, designated by NTCA – The Rural Broadband Association. Pineland was awarded, in late September 2016, the Smart Rural Community Designation due to its broadband deployment and the innovative use of that technology in the communities served. By earning the SRC distinction, Pineland opened the door for Smart Rural Community Collaboration Challenge Grants.
All Collaboration Challenge Grants must have a matching element whether that be of cash or in-kind dollars. The re-development and remodel of the park allowed for the monies used for it to be considered the matching component. Pineland worked closely with City Manager, Mandi Cody and Public Works Director Cliff Hendrix to determine what funding was used as the match and how wi-fi in the park could benefit the downtown area current citizens and visitors. James Owens, network engineer, worked closely with Pineland plant managers Mike Purvis and Wayne Foskey to determine the most suitable option for wi-fi deployment in the new park. Dustin Durden, Pineland general manager, traveled to San Diego with several board members for the award announcement.
Pineland’s goal is to have the park wi-fi deployed by this year’s Another Bloomin’ Festival which will be April 15.