Town gets wifi hotspot funds

Big Stone Gap and Norton are among the additional communities that will get funding for wifi hotspots, United Way of Southwest Virginia has announced.

Each will get $1,500 to help pay for wifi installation.

A total of 30 wifi hotspots have been approved for funding by United Way in partnership with the Lenowisco and Mount Rogers planning district commissions.

Recipients will install wifi hotspots in a publicly accessible location in their community, making it easier for students and families in the region to access reliable, free internet service.

“With students attending school on both a virtual and hybrid schedule in the city of Norton and Wise County, the need for reliable internet access is critical,” Lenowisco Executive Director Duane Miller said.