Augusta, Ga. – October 1, 2026 – LiveOak Fiber, a regional all-fiber internet service provider, today announced a $100 million private investment to build a fiber-optic network across Augusta, Evans and Martinez, giving residents and businesses a new choice for high-speed internet. Construction is expected to begin in January 2027, with the first customers connected by April.

“This investment represents a meaningful commitment to Augusta’s future,” said Augusta Mayor-elect Steven Kendrick. “Reliable, high-capacity connectivity supports the way our residents live, learn and work, and it strengthens our ability to compete for new businesses and opportunities. We welcome LiveOak Fiber and the jobs they are creating for our community.”

The fiber build is a long-term investment in the region’s infrastructure, designed to keep pace with the community’s needs as Augusta, Evans and Martinez continue to expand.

“As communities across the region continue to grow and evolve, we are proud to invest in infrastructure that will support their success for decades to come,” said Shane Schilling, CEO of LiveOak Fiber. “For residents and businesses, it means a real choice of provider and a network with reliable, symmetrical speeds and room to scale as their needs do.”

Newly connected single-family homes, multi-dwelling units and business will have access to symmetrical fiber speeds, which allow customers to upload and download data at the same fast rate. That capacity supports everyday needs like streaming, remote work, online learning, connected-home technology and complex business operations that depend on reliable performance.

“Evans and Martinez are important parts of Columbia County’s growth story, and robust digital infrastructure is critical to serving both established businesses and new investment,” said Mike Carraway, District 3 Commissioner. “LiveOak Fiber’s commitment adds capacity, competition and another valuable asset as we work to support quality growth across Columbia County.”

The benefits of the build will reach far beyond faster internet. Along with the network, it brings local hiring and work for area contractors and suppliers.

“Being a local provider means more than building a network. It means showing up and becoming part of the community,” said Steve Smith, Founder & Chief Community Development Officer at LiveOak Fiber. “We’ve listened to leaders, businesses and residents across the Augusta region, and we’re committed to investing locally, creating opportunities and building relationships that last. That’s how we want LiveOak to make an impact here for years to come.”

LiveOak Fiber will provide updates as new areas become eligible for service. Residents and business owners who want to know when service may be available in their neighborhood can pre-register and sign up for construction updates at liveoakfiber.com. Individuals interested in joining LiveOak Fiber’s growing local team can view available positions at liveoakfiber.com/careers.

 

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About LiveOak Fiber

LiveOak Fiber is a premier all-fiber broadband service provider dedicated to providing lightning-fast and dependable connectivity to communities across Florida, Georgia and South Carolina. LiveOak Fiber’s commitment extends beyond connectivity; the company invests in the regions it serves, enhancing quality of life and fostering economic development. Discover its ongoing efforts to transform communities at liveoakfiber.com, and connect with LiveOak Fiber on LinkedIn, X and Facebook to stay updated on its progress.