JOHNSON COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL) -- Broadband internet access in Johnson County will expand thanks to a $5 million grant from the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD).

According to TNECD, the $5,056,150.54 grant is one of many grants to improve internet and digital opportunities in the state.

The Last Mile grant will fund SkyBest, a North Carolina-based provider that already serves some locations in Johnson County.

Last Mile grants are awarded directly to internet service providers to improve broadband access in Tennessee areas that are lacking fast internet speeds.

Johnson County Mayor Larry Potter told News Channel 11 that SkyBest has already proven to be beneficial for the county.

"It's reliable," Potter said. "[They've] been a great partner, and this $5 million grant will really help Johnson County to expand that footprint. It's a shot in the arm for economic development for our community. It's hard to believe the people [who] work at home now."

The grant funding will serve almost 500 customers, and the funds must be spent by the end of 2026.