UTILITIES
Broadband Internet & IT Transport Services

Union County is served with robust, redundant and reliable fiber optic networks that provide outstanding broadband capabilities for technology-oriented business. IT services available locally include wireless Internet (802.11x), fiber-optic (Ethernet & SONET), DSL, various levels of broadband (T-1, T-3, etc.), and dial-up. Union County boasts multiple Certificated Local Exchange Carriers (CLECs) providing middle-mile transport. Strong last-mile Internet Service Providers (ISPs) operate within the footprint of Union County. Most of these networks can deliver VoIP, IPTV and other IT-based products. Union County providers offer middle-mile transport via redundant underground fiber to multiple POPs including Atlanta (56 Marietta), Chattanooga, Charlotte, and others.

• BalsamWest FiberNET, LLC is a middle-mile transport provider offering open access to its underground, redundant fiber-optic (SONET) network with connectivity to several major southeastern POPs and multiple ISPs. The privately owned company offers data transport at Atlanta and Washington, D.C. metro pricing schedules. BalsamWest is owned by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and Drake Enterprises.

• Blue Ridge Mountain EMC.net is a major local Internet Service Provider (ISP). BRMEMC operates fiber-optic (underground and redundant), DSL, wireless (802.11x), and dial-up networks, and offers bundled middle and last-mile Internet services.

• Windstream Communications (see "Landline" section)

The 260-mile broadband ring from Atlanta north through the Georgia mountains, and including Union County, is the backbone of a $42-million fiber optic network that branches off into 1,000 miles or more of end-user connections.

• Delivers broadband access to 245 community anchor institutions through a direct connection to the middle mile network, and last mile service to approximately 24,000 households in previously inaccessible and unaffordable areas.
• Maintains an open network for independent service providers to interconnect with and build out their own fiber-optic services to the end user.
• Stimulates the demand for broadband, and creates a technology-based economy and new jobs in the area.

Companies looking to relocate to Union County and that need the latest broadband technologies and fast Internet connections will find Union County's gigabit service availability and affordability yet another reason to do business in Union County.

Sewer

Sewer service is available within the City of Blairsville. Capacity is 0.4 MGD, expanding to 1.0 MGD.

Electric Power

Electric power is distributed in Union County by the Blue Ridge Mountain Electric Membership Corporation, with headquarters in Young Harris, 9 miles east of Blairsville. Blue Ridge Mountain EMC is a Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) distributor covering a 1,150 square-mile service area which includes three counties in north Georgia and two counties in western North Carolina. Blue Ridge Mountain EMC is constantly expanding, committed to quality, low-cost electric service and offers a full range of electrical engineering and industrial energy management programs.

Wireless (Cellular)

Excellent wireless (cell) telephone service is available from either AT&T or Verizon Wireless throughout the Blue Ridge, Blairsville, Young Harris, and Hiawassee area. Numerous cellular towers serve customers in the area. Both providers operate sales outlets across the region.

Landline

Landline telephone service for Union County is provided by Windstream Communications, which offers direct-dial digital service and a DMS 100 switch in Blairsville. Windstream Communications offers trained service technicians to maintain almost any business system sold. Windstream Communications cooperates with all other long-lines systems. Trunks and other facilities are available upon request.