MOUNTAIN CITY -- Congressman Bill Jenkins and Appalachian Regional Commission Co-Chair Anne Pope will launch Johnson County's high-speed broadband wireless telecommunications network with an ARC check on Tuesday in Mountain City.

        The funding will enable a system that will benefit all sectors of the community and especially students and local businesses.

        Several business leaders, state and county officials, and representatives from East Tennessee State University and Northeast State Technical Community College will be on hand for the check presentation to Johnson County Mayor Dick Grayson beginning at 2:30 p.m. at the Johnson County High School library.

        In addition to the ARC funding, additional money will come from the State of Tennessee, $192,000; and $24,000 from local sources.

        The project will include the installation of wireless towers, the placement of antennas and other ancillary electronic equipment necessary to establish the new wireless network.

        Johnson County's school system, along with East Tennessee State University, Northeast State Technical College and the county's Small Business Development Center, will use the network for expanded curriculums and technical assistance programs for business.  Many businesses will immediately utilize the new network for E-commerce activities.