At United Communications, we’re passionate about making a real difference in our local communities. A key part of that commitment is bridging the digital divide and providing reliable, high-speed internet access to underserved areas across Middle Tennessee.
Through initiatives like Project UNITE, we’re working with local school systems and community leaders to fuel economic development and opportunity. This collaborative approach is essential for expanding internet access and building a stronger future for Middle Tennessee.
That’s why we asked Wil Evans, a passionate advocate and local leader, to share his insights on how Maury County is benefitting from this broadband-driven growth for this blog.
Maury County is experiencing incredible growth, both in population and business investment. Over the past five years, our county has seen an 18.7% population increase, placing us in the top five percent of counties nationwide. We’ve also generated over $4.3 billion in new investments from businesses of all sizes since 2020. These numbers speak to the exciting economic momentum we’re seeing across the county.
High-speed broadband internet is a key factor fueling this growth.
Fast and reliable internet access is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity for businesses, entrepreneurs, and residents. United Communications has been a key partner in expanding broadband access across Maury County, including a recent $24.4 million investment to bring high-speed fiber internet to 6,500 homes and businesses. This expansion is making a real difference in helping our community thrive.
How High-Speed Internet is Transforming Maury County
Here are a few tangible ways broadband has impacted economic development in Maury County:
1. Attracting New Businesses
Maury County’s growth has attracted new residents and created opportunities for new businesses to thrive. According to SmartAsset, our county ranks in the top five percent nationwide for new building permits and incoming investments.
When the Chamber works with businesses looking to expand or relocate to Maury County, broadband internet access is always a major consideration. Companies need high-speed broadband to operate efficiently, whether they’re manufacturers, tech startups, or service providers. The more areas in our county that have reliable internet, the more competitive we can be in attracting businesses that create jobs and stimulate long-term economic success.
2. Supporting Innovation and a Flexible Workforce
With broadband access, Maury County has been positioning itself to continue to attract innovative companies that might otherwise settle in larger urban areas. One great example is the Innovation Campus, a site in Spring Hill designed to support cutting-edge industries that want to invest in a large-scale, campus-style development.
At the same time, the ability to work from home has become a major factor in where professionals choose to live. More and more people are looking for a place that offers great quality of life and the technology needed to work efficiently. Broadband expansion is also essential for the growing number of remote workers in our community. Expanding high-speed internet into rural areas of Maury County allows our workforce to remain competitive and connected, no matter where they choose to live.
3. Enhancing Quality of Life for Residents
Economic development is about building a thriving community. A strong economy relies on a high quality of life, and internet access plays a crucial role in education, healthcare, and daily convenience.
Educational opportunities and quality of life are two core components of the Chamber’s advocacy agenda to foster a business-friendly environment. Broadband expansion enables families to balance rural living with access to the educational and lifestyle opportunities that high-speed internet can offer.
United Communications’ commitment to broadband expansion is already making a difference. In fact, one of our own employees recently gained access to high-speed internet at home for the first time, a direct result of our ongoing commitment to bring reliable internet to every Middle Tennessean.
Looking Ahead: A Stronger, More Connected Future
United Communications is a valued partner in Maury County’s economic development, and they’re helping to provide additional infrastructure for long-term growth. As broadband expands, I’m excited to see the impact on our businesses, workforce, and residents.
Maury County’s future is bright, and reliable internet is essential to that success. Through continued partnerships and investment, we’re not just growing; we’re thriving.
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Guest Author Bio:
Wil Evans, President & CEO of Maury County Chamber and Economic Alliance
As President & CEO of the Maury County Chamber and Economic Alliance, Wil Evans is dedicated to making Maury County a thriving community for residents and businesses. With over a decade of experience at the Chamber, he brings expertise and passion to fostering business opportunities and driving job growth. His commitment to the community extends to service on several non-profit boards. Wil holds a degree in business administration and marketing from Austin Peay State University and was named one of Nashville Business Journal’s 40 Under 40.