Richland Parish celebrates completion of GUMBO-funded broadband expansion in Rayville
Volt Broadband will provide service; leaders say improved internet access could boost education, safety and local business.
RAYVILLE, La. (KNOE) — Leaders in Richland Parish cut a ribbon Thursday afternoon celebrating the completion of an internet expansion project that will bring more high-speed broadband access to the parish and surrounding areas.
The project was funded through Louisiana’s GUMBO 1.0 program, and service will be provided by Volt Broadband. Local officials and residents say the expanded access could improve day-to-day life across multiple areas, including education, public safety and economic development, while also giving businesses and families more reliable connectivity.
“We are super excited to celebrate this today because Richland Parish is special because of the people in our community,” said Savannah Morris, executive director of the Richland Parish Chamber of Commerce. “And so, to provide opportunities to connect those people is such a win for our community.”
Morris said broadband access can make a difference for business leaders, students and families juggling work and child care, including parents who may need to work from home.
For local restaurant owner and Richland Parish resident Tim Allen, the expansion is expected to help small businesses keep up as more services move online.
“The power of internet, to be able to do business, to take payments, to make orders—everything is going online now today,” Allen said.
Morris did not confirm how many homes are now able to receive broadband speeds or what percentage of the parish is currently active.
Copyright 2026 KNOE. All rights reserved.
