Google Partners with Berkeley Chamber of Commerce to Provide Internet Access to Rural Communities

Press Release

Made possible by funding granted by Google, seven community centers across Berkeley County will now offer access to high speed internet and six will have Chromebooks for members of their communities. Through their Berkeley Rural Initiative, the Berkeley Chamber of Commerce partnered with Google to make these resources available across the county with special consideration for areas that do not have widespread access to broadband. As our world becomes increasingly digital, lack of access to a reliable internet connection has become a burdensome hurdle for those living in rural areas.

“This a significant accomplishment for our Chamber,” said Todd Buddin, President of the Berkeley Chamber of Commerce. “Since our Berkeley Rural Initiative was created, providing access to broadband to our underserved areas has been a priority. Our Chamber is deeply thankful to Google for providing the resources to make this a reality.”

In an effort to make technology more accessible, people living in the communities of Alvin, Wassassamaasaw, Cross, St. Stephen, Cordesville, Moncks Corner, Jamestown, and Cainhoy will now be able to utilize the internet connection at their local community centers.

“It is thrilling to see our business community and Chamber dedicated to addressing the needs of the people of Berkeley County by providing access that leads to more opportunities for our rural communities,” said Caldwell Pinckney, Berkeley County Council Member.

The following sites now offer internet access:

• Cross Community Center – 1690 Old Highway 6, Cross, SC
• Alvin Recreation Center – 2191 Santee River Rd, Saint Stephen, SC
• Tri-Community Center – 1708 Poplar Hill Drive, Cross, SC (internet access only)
• Wassamassaw Recreation Center – 1023 Queenie Rd., Moncks Corner, SC
• Keith School – 1509 Clements Ferry Rd, Charleston, SC
• Town of Jamestown Library – Highway 41, Jamestown, SC
• St. Stephen American Legion Hut – Library – 180 Ravenell Drive, Saint Stephen, SC

“Google is thrilled to be a part of this important investment in Berkeley County,” said Amber Tillman, Google’s Head of Data Center Economic and Community Development. “In today’s world, internet access is a vital resource for people of all ages. Whether it’s to do school work, apply for a job, or participate in a telehealth appointment– people living in rural areas have digital needs that we’re making great strides toward meeting. Providing internet access to these seven community centers is a stepping stone toward better connectivity for all.”

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