AT&T launches gigabit service in Springfield

AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) launched gigabit internet service for the Springfield area, marking another source for businesses to utilize high-speed broadband.

The rollout pushes gigabit speeds offered by AT&T to the Queen City, Joplin, Jefferson City, Sikeston, Cape Girardeau, Hannibal, Kansas City and St. Joseph, according to a news release.

Earlier this week, Mediacom Business announced it was expanding its gigabit-level network to hundreds of unserved and underserved commercial properties in Springfield. City Utilities’ SpringNet Broadband also expanded its gigabit service to businesses, including a program in the downtown area.

AT&T officials say the company has invested nearly $1.9 billion 2013-15 in Missouri through wireless and wired network infrastructure improvements.

“Our business customers have told us they need fast and reliable network solutions to stay connected and competitive,” said John Sondag, president of AT&T Missouri, in the release.

Services with 1 gigabit per second are roughly 100 times faster than traditional broadband.