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Spectrum technician crew working on a broadband expansion project

Broadband ExpansionMay 16, 2023

Spectrum Completes Fiber Optic Network Expansion Across Hampden, Maine

Spectrum Spends Over $500,000 to Build Out to Remaining Currently Unserved Homes

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HAMPDEN, Maine — Spectrum today announced the completion of its network expansion to deliver high-speed internet access to the remaining unserved homes in the town of Hampden, Maine. The company invested over $500,000 to extend its network to just over 180 homes identified as unserved in the town. Hampden now has access to 1 Gbps download speeds and Advanced WiFi for both residential customers and small business clients and starting speeds of 300 Mbps with no modem fees, data caps or contracts. Company and town officials will formally announce the availability of new service at the Town Council meeting at 6 p.m. at the town office, 106 Western Ave.

Hampden’s completion follows Spectrum’s recently announced plans to extend its network to thousands of unserved homes across the state and its investment of approximately $70 million as part of a companywide network evolution, which will enable the delivery of symmetrical and multiple gigabit speeds in Maine. The investment is 100% company-funded and is expected to be substantially complete across the company’s Maine service area, which comprises more than 700,000 homes, by the end of 2025.

“The Town of Hampden has long recognized the need for all residents to have access to reliable, high-speed internet connectivity and have worked tirelessly toward that goal. We are thankful that Spectrum is investing in our community and now delivering reliable internet access to the remaining unconnected families and businesses in Hampden,” said Paula Scott, Hampden Town Manager.

Hampden is the latest of several network extension completions by Spectrum. Earlier this year, Spectrum announced the completion of a 27-mile network extension to more than 200 unserved homes in Westport Island. Last October, Charter announced the completion a $3 million network upgrade and launch of Spectrum’s high-speed broadband to more than 1,600 area homes and small businesses in Etna, Newburgh and Swanville.

“Residents in Hampden now have the ability to access reliable, secure high speed broadband to help maintain the important connections in their life,” said Paul Schonewolf, Area Vice President, Field Operations, Charter Communications. “Families can stay close to distant loved ones, students can access online school resources, and caregivers can have immediate connection to health care professionals. Spectrum remains committed to Maine and we’ll continue to review opportunities to bring our service to new areas.”

Spectrum’s Commitment to Maine

Spectrum serves over 466,000 customers in 295 communities and employs more than 750 people across the state. Spectrum continues to drive innovation and grow economies from coast to coast in big and small cities and rural communities. In 2022 alone, the company extended the reach of its network to an additional 10,000 homes and small businesses and made capital investments of $73 million in technology and infrastructure in Maine.

Broadband Speeds up to 1 Gbps, Plus Money-Saving Mobile Options and 85,000 On Demand Choices

Spectrum Internet delivers speeds up to 1 Gbps and Advanced WiFi for both residential customers and small business clients, featuring starting speeds of 300 Mbps, with no modem fees, data caps or contracts. Spectrum Business Internet offers its clients plans with starting download speeds of 300 Mbps, with 600 Mbps and 1 Gbps options.

Spectrum Internet delivers the fastest internet and WiFi download speeds in the nation*, and also exceeded advertised download and upload speeds for all tiers measured — even during peak weeknight usage between 7 and 11 p.m. — according to the FCC’s most recent “Measuring Broadband America Fixed Broadband Report” issued in January 2023.

Spectrum also was a day one participant in the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which makes quality, high-speed internet service available at a low — or even at no — cost to eligible families in financial need. All Spectrum Internet plans are eligible for ACP credits, and because customers are not locked into a contract, families can always choose the right broadband plan to meet their changing needs.

Along with multiple broadband options, Spectrum services now available also include Spectrum Mobile and Spectrum TV®. Spectrum Mobile is the nation’s fastest-growing mobile provider** and combines with Spectrum Internet and Advanced Home WiFi to provide seamless connectivity inside and outside the home. Spectrum Mobile provides customers access to nationwide 5G at great value, with Unlimited lines starting at $29.99 a month, as well as By the Gig options.

Spectrum TV offers more than 270 HD channels and access to 85,000 On Demand movies and shows. Using the Spectrum TV App — the highest-rated pay TV streaming app in the U.S.*** — viewers can stream content across a growing number of platforms, including iOS and Android mobile devices, Xbox One, Kindle Fire, Samsung Smart TVs, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku, XUMO TVs and PCs.

Local residents and business owners should visit spectrumruralexpansion.com to learn more about when their home or business may be able to receive Spectrum services.

* Based on analysis by Ookla® of Speedtest Intelligence® data U.S. median fixed download speeds for Q1 2023. Ookla trademarks used under license and reprinted with permission.

** Based on year end 2022 subscriber data among top 3 carriers.

***iOS (App Store) and Android (Google Play) average ratings as of April 1, 2023. Apps must have at least 150k reviews through combination of iOS & Android store reviews as of April 1, 2023.

About Spectrum

Spectrum is a suite of advanced communications services offered by Charter Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ:CHTR), a leading broadband connectivity company and cable operator serving more than 32 million customers in 41 states. Over an advanced communications network, the company offers a full range of state-of-the-art residential and business services including Spectrum Internet®, TV, Mobile and Voice.

For small and medium-sized companies, Spectrum Business® delivers the same suite of broadband products and services coupled with special features and applications to enhance productivity, while for larger businesses and government entities, Spectrum Enterprise provides highly customized, fiber-based solutions. Spectrum Reach® delivers tailored advertising and production for the modern media landscape. The company also distributes award-winning news coverage and sports programming to its customers through Spectrum Networks. More information about Charter can be found at corporate.charter.com.

Media Contact

Heidi Vandenbrouck

Heidi.Vandenbrouck@charter.com