Firefly Celebrates 45,000 Service Connections and Major Progress in Rural Broadband Expansion
Palmyra, Virginia — Firefly Fiber BroadbandSM, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Central Virginia Electric Cooperative (CVEC), has reached a major milestone this month: 45,000 homes and businesses now connected to its world‑class, gigabit‑speed fiber network.
This achievement marks extraordinary growth since Firefly’s launch in 2018 and reflects the company’s continued commitment to bringing reliable, affordable high‑speed internet to rural communities across central Virginia.
Customers continue to share how Firefly’s service has transformed their daily lives with the ability for remote work and online learning, telehealth, entertainment, and staying connected with loved ones.
“We’ve had Firefly for several years and have only good to say about the service. Our home phone, internet, and streaming work beautifully and we saved some money in the process,” said one customer. “We appreciate all who have worked so hard to bring this service to us.”
“Reaching 45,000 connections is a testament to the demand for reliable broadband in rural Virginia and to the dedication of our team,” said Firefly President and CEO, Gary Wood. “Every new connection represents a home or business that finally has access to the opportunities that come with high‑speed internet. We’re proud of this progress and excited for what’s ahead.”
Firefly’s rapid growth is fueled by its ongoing partnerships and expansion initiatives, including the Regional Internet Service Expansion (RISE) project, a collaboration with Rappahannock Electric Cooperative, Dominion Energy, and 13 participating counties. Through RISE and other efforts, Firefly is on track to bring service to tens of thousands of unserved and underserved locations across central Virginia.
CVEC’s mainline fiber construction—completed ahead of schedule—has already made Firefly’s fiber‑to‑the‑home service available to 38,000 CVEC members. Firefly’s broader expansion efforts continue to accelerate, with construction and connections increasing month after month.
“As we celebrate this milestone, we remain focused on the work ahead,” Wood added. “Our mission is to ensure that every home and business in our service area has access to fast, reliable internet. We’re well on our way.”