United Communications CEO William Bradford featured on “Lead Tennessee Radio”

Posted: June 4, 2020

Increased demand for broadband boosts expansion projects

William Bradford, CEO of United Communications, was a recent guest on the podcast “Lead Tennessee Radio.” The show is produced by the Tennessee Broadband Association.

Bradford discussed the recent health pandemic and its impact on businesses, as well as the importance of fiber projects to jump-start the economy in rural Tennessee. United’s focus on expanding its fiber network is validated by a 30% increase in internet traffic since the COVID-19 pandemic began, with a record number of people requesting service.

“The need for upload speeds has become more important, and only fiber can provide the speeds for someone to be productive working from home,” Bradford said.

In the TNBA podcast episode, Bradford said United will likely invest more than $50 million over the next few years to expand fiber technology in rural Tennessee. The Chapel Hill-based telecommunications company has already invested more than $90 million in fiber for Middle Tennessee. Bradford also discussed stimulating the economy with internet infrastructure projects and the importance of partnerships to get broadband projects completed efficiently.

United Communications was recently awarded a $1.3 million broadband accessibility grant to expand fiber around the Eagleville area in Rutherford and Williamson counties.

United has partnered with Middle Tennessee Electric Membership Cooperative to extend broadband to more residents and businesses in underserved areas in Middle Tennessee.

The “Lead Tennessee Radio” podcast is an opportunity to discuss issues facing Tennessee with state leaders and lawmakers. Past episodes feature House Speaker Cameron Sexton, R-Crossville; Lt. Gov. Randy McNally, R-Oak Ridge; House Majority Leader William Lamberth, R-Portland; Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson, R-Franklin; and many more.

“The cooperative and independent telecommunications companies who comprise the TNBA are working hard to ensure that everyone in rural Tennessee has access to this life-changing technology,” said Levoy Knowles, TNBA executive director and host of the show. “This podcast is a great opportunity to have conversations with state and industry leaders who are on the front lines working for a connected Tennessee.”

“Lead Tennessee Radio” can be found on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Google Play, as well as tennesseebroadband.com.

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