This file photo shows the Tupelo TVA sign at night in Tupelo’s Crosstown area. (Photo Credit: Thomas Wells)
Tombigbee Electric Power Association (TEPA) is set to launch a major fiber-optic internet expansion project through the center of Tupelo. The initiative aims to extend high-speed internet from the north side of the city down to Verona, with fiber-optic lines being installed along North Gloster Street.
“This project will connect the north and south ends of town, providing system redundancy, which is beneficial for our current customers,” said TEPA CEO Scott Hendrix.
Starting at the northern end of Gloster Street, the project will connect with existing fiber lines and progress toward the intersection of Main Street and Gloster, also known as Crosstown. It will then continue south, reaching Verona. Along the route, TEPA will activate services mile-by-mile, initially targeting commercial properties. However, residential neighborhoods within a few blocks of Gloster Street will also be surveyed. If there is sufficient interest, the fiber service will be extended to these areas.
TEPA aims to complete the northern portion of the project by the end of this year, with the southern section expected to wrap up by next fall. The association also has plans to extend coverage west along West Main Street to the Natchez Trace Parkway, potentially reaching most of Tupelo, excluding the downtown area. Hendrix mentioned that downtown could be added in the future, depending on various factors.
One distinctive aspect of this project is that much of the installation work will be conducted overnight, enhancing safety for both workers and residents. Linemen will install the fiber cables along existing lines on Gloster Street during these hours.
TEPA requested assistance from the city of Tupelo with traffic management and security during the installation. The city council unanimously agreed to allow uniformed Tupelo police officers to provide overnight security. These officers will be compensated directly by TEPA for their time, and the city will be reimbursed for the use of police vehicles.
“It’s a good opportunity for some extra pay for our officers,” said Mayor Todd Jordan.
Ward 5 Councilman Buddy Palmer recused himself from the vote due to his role on the TEPA Board of Directors.