DEKALB COUNTY’S NEW INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDER

There is a new Internet Service Provider in town called Boonlink. Headquartered at 307 Grand Ave NW in Fort Payne, Boonlink offers the residents and businesses of Dekalb County another option for High-Speed Internet.

“We really believe there is a need for a locally operated, stand-alone Internet company in Dekalb County,” says Owner, John McDowell. “People are tired of not having options and being locked into services they don’t need.”

Boonlink, which was formed out of “demand for quality broadband Internet service to rural communities,” as its website states, plans to cover all of Dekalb County by June 2008 offering speeds up to 3.5 Mbps in extremely rural areas.

“Statistically speaking, the US is falling way behind when it comes to broadband coverage and rural areas are the worst,” McDowell says. “We realize this and are doing our part to close the digital bridge in Northeast Alabama as quickly as possible.”

When asked what sets Boonlink apart from other Service Providers, McDowell explained that Boonlink allows subscribers the freedom of no land-line telephones, no cable television, cheaper prices, and the ability to speak with a Customer Service Representative locally. “We’re also really excited about renovating the old Wilk’s Furniture building in downtown Fort Payne and doing our part to revitalize the city.”

Boonlink’s long term plans include Internet Phone Service, Digital TV, Security Services and Computer Sales. It hopes to be North Alabama’s one-stop shop when it comes to anything technological.

When asked to explain the name, McDowell said it was a combination of two things. “For one, it’s obvious when you look at the areas we are trying to reach. And two, find Boon in your dictionary and you’ll know why. Everybody needs Internet.”