Alabama Cable Providers Offer Broadband Services to Students and Families During COVID-19 Outbreak

The University of Alabama will transition to online courses following an extended Spring Break, and all K-12 Public Schools in the state close for two and a half weeks beginning Wednesday, March 18th. How will students and families be able to obtain the internet access they need to complete coursework?

Alabama's cable providers are stepping up to assist residents in their time of need.

“Alabama’s cable providers are also coordinating with our local governmental and non-profit organizations across the state to make sure we have the highest awareness of these broadband options among those most affected by COVID-19 preparations,” said Michelle Roth, Executive Director of the Alabama Cable and Broadband Association. “Please check with your local cable provider if you are unclear on options for student and low-income access during this critical time in Alabama.”

Comcast is offering the following:

• Xfinity WiFi hotspots will also be available for free. For a map, visit www.xfinity.com/wifi.
• Comcast is pausing data plans for 60 days giving all customers unlimited data for no additional charge.
• Comcast will not disconnect a customer’s internet service or assess late fees if they contact the company and let them know that they can’t pay their bills during this period.
• New customers will receive 60 days of complimentary Internet Essentials service, which is normally available to all qualified low-income households for $9.95/month.
• Additionally, the speed of the program’s Internet service was increased to 25 Mbps downstream and 3 Mbps upstream. There is no additional fee and it becomes the new base speed going forward.

For more information on the COVID-19 outbreak in Tuscaloosa, click here.