On Tuesday, Governor Glenn Younkgin announced his recommendations to the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) for the funding of 13 projects totaling $7.4 million in grants.  Among those projects is the City of Martinsville’s MiNet expansion, recommending $700,000.

“These projects represent the innovation and strong entrepreneurial spirit of the Appalachian region,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “ARC plays a pivotal role in empowering our Appalachian communities to address their unique challenges, capitalize on their unique assets and drive positive change throughout the region.”

MiNet is a city-owned internet service provider for local businesses and residents in Martinsville, offering a local internet service that matches or exceeds similar providers’ speed, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.

As Martinsville City Council has devoted $800,000 of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA ) funding to support the city-wide expansion of MiNet, should ARC follow the Governor’s recommendations in funding, $1.5 million of the estimated $5.4 million project would be secured.

“Having MiNet available throughout the City could generate over $2 million in new revenue that could be used to fund major projects,” said City Manager Aretha R. Ferrell-Benavides. “We hope to fund the expansion project with as many outside funding sources as possible so our citizen’s local tax dollars would not be impacted.”

“We’re excited to receive the Governor’s support for this project,” said Telecommunications Director Mike Scaffidi. “We’re currently evaluating our planned expansion to strategically grow our number of customers and begin offering fiber optic internet to all businesses and citizens.”

The ARC is expected to announce its finalized awards in the fall.