Since the formation of Upcountry Fiber in the fall of 2021, the goal of bringing fiber to the rural areas served by Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative has never changed. After months of grant applications and funding considerations, Upcountry Fiber was able to begin bringing internet service to the unserved and underserved areas of Pickens, Oconee, Anderson and Greenville counties. Members that have never enjoyed high speed internet have responded with resounding thanks to this partnership.

In 2024 alone, 284 miles of fiber were added. The majority of this work, most of it limited by grant constraints, was completed in the Golden Corner, Oakway, Westminster and Mountain Rest areas in Oconee County; the Six Mile and Pickens areas of Pickens County; and the Pendleton and Roberts Church areas in Anderson County. More than 20,000 customers - 3,200 added in 2024 - are now enjoying high speed internet.

Chief of Staff Zachary Hinton has spearheaded this project since its beginning. He says he is proud of the progress made so far. 

"We've received over $21 million in grants and contributions-in-aid since the beginning," says Hinton. "While our construction is geared to the areas that are part of a grant completion, it still will allow us to reach our entire system in less time. The addition of fiber is bringing a valuable recurring revenue to the co-op each month that will benefit all our members."

Plans have already been made for construction in 2025. The areas that are slated for fiber construction are Six Mile, Liberty, Pickens, North Greenville, Pendleton, Ebenezer and Walhalla. For more information about construction in your area or to sign up for service visit upcountryfiber.com.