AT&T expands its fiber internet services to additional customers in south Columbus

AT&T said it is expanding its Fiber internet access to 12,500 new customer locations in south Columbus, according to a news conference Monday at the Frank D. Chester Recreation Center.

Now, there are approximately 25,000 customer locations in Columbus that have access to Fiber internet access through AT&T.

“AT&T is committed to connecting more Americans to reliable, high-speed internet in several ways, including expanding and upgrading our network and participating in the federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP),” the company said in a news release.

Fiber optic internet is a data connection carried by a cable filled with thin glass or plastic fibers, according to AT&T’s website. Data travels through them as beams of light pulsed in a pattern. Fiber optic internet speeds are about 20 times faster than regular cable.

The ACP program gives eligible households a benefit of up to $30 a month to reduce the cost of internet service, according to the release.

City leaders and other government officials celebrated the new addition to the area with a ribbon cutting ceremony Monday.

Columbus Mayor Skip Henderson said, “This is a big day for Columbus.”

“Right here in Columbus, Ga., recognized as the second largest city in the state, we have gaps,” said Henderson while thanking AT&T for expanding internet availability.

Councilman Bruce Huff said, “I’m elated to be here to witness what AT&T has done to make living and working in this area better for business, residents, and people who work from home.”

“It’s such a big moment for economic development,” said Councilman Tyson Begly. “We can move people to the area and keep an existing job they have because they have the option to work from home.”