NorthState to invest $51M in expanding fiber internet in Forsyth, Randolph counties

The communications company NorthState is pledging a $51 million investment to expand fiber-optic internet service to Forsyth and Randolph counties. 

The High Point-based company says its project will bring over 680 miles of fiber-optic technology that will benefit nearly 38,000 residents and businesses.

According to a news release, underserved areas of Forsyth County including Winston-Salem, Bethania, and Lewisville will see expanded internet coverage. In Randolph County, the Asheboro, Franklinville, and Ramseur communities will benefit.

Forsyth County Commissioner David Plyler says the investment will result in a great technological leap forward for the area.  

"The main thing is we want to serve, from my perspective, the people of Forsyth County and surrounding counties with the opportunities that are available through internet service, and NorthState is a great example of what can be done when both government and private enterprise work together," says Plyler. 

NorthState representative Jay Winn says higher bandwidth capabilities are becoming more of a necessity with the increased usage of two-way applications such as gaming and Zoom meetings.