Broadband is headed to the Berkshires

July 26, 2011
By Justine Judge
WSHM Channel 3
Online Video

SANDISFIELD, MA
While it's still two years away, residents in Sandisfield are ecstatic to hear they will have access to high speed broadband Internet access. Tuesday, Governor Deval Patrick was in the Berkshire County town to kick off the final phase of the MassBroadband 123 fiber optic network project which will expand broadband access to more than 120 communities in Western and north central parts of the state.

Governor Patrick says, "It's essential to modern education, medical care, public safety and simplifying public institutions and getting information out all over the world. It's absolutely critical to economic development and to businesses."

Tina Sotis has been living in Sandisfield for nearly 12 years. She's a graphic design artist and relies on the Internet to work from home. Currently, she has DSL but can't wait for a speedy connection.

Sotis says, "Some people here in town still have dial-up and it's impossible for them. Absolutely impossible for them to keep up with everyone else."

The broadband project is being funded by $45 million in stimulus funds. So far, the project has created more than 400 of jobs during the installation process and is expected to create more by drawing in businesses.

Sotis says "It will completely change the face of this whole town I think. I'm hoping it will attract businesses like mine and my husbands."

Over the past few years, 55 miles of fiber optic cable has been laid along 1-91 in Massachusetts from the Vermont to Connecticut borders. It's a key component of the 123 network.