Based on data from fieldwork and surveys, four Early Action projects were identified in Derry, Fairfield, and Ligonier Townships. These locations represented the greatest need and were prioritized to bring much-needed support to residents and businesses. Please view the Final Report pdf for details on the criteria used to determine the Early Action projects.

After a competitive Request for Proposals process to identify local and national Internet Service Providers (ISPs), Verizon was selected by Westmoreland County Commissioners and the Department of Planning & Development to bring Internet service to over 400 locations within the Early Action areas. Verizon will be providing unserved residents and businesses with the infrastructure to connect to high-speed fiber–optic broadband. 

It will take Verizon approximately 12 months to build the new fiber–optic infrastructure. During that time, Verizon construction crews will be in Derry, Fairfield, and Ligonier Townships installing the necessary build–out to bring faster and more reliable Internet access to residents and businesses. Approximately 30 miles of fiber will be deployed throughout the Early Action areas.  

The County Commissioners have dedicated American Rescue Plan Act funds for broadband expansion. The County will split the Early Action project costs with Verizon and invest approximately $1.7 million in the over $3.5 million project to install fiber-optic Internet to the Early Action areas. No out-of-pocket expenses will be incurred by residents or businesses to have the Verizon high-speed Internet access infrastructure installed.  

Once complete, residents within the Early Action areas will have the necessary infrastructure to subscribe to Verizon broadband services. There is no obligation to sign up for Verizon high-speed Internet. Information about plans offered and how to sign up or change plans will be provided by Verizon in the coming months.