City Finalist In International Technology Award

HONOLULU – The city of Bristol, Va., was one of seven finalists named Wednesday for an international technology award.

Bristol was the only U.S. city – and the smallest city – included on the list of seven finalists, announced during a ceremony at the Intelligent Community Forum.

The program annually names its Intelligent Community of the Year, recognizing cities worldwide that offer broadband telecommunications services to promote economic prosperity and improve quality of life.

Bristol is being recognized for Bristol Virginia Utilities’ OptiNet broadband program, which provides high-speed Internet, cable television and telephone services to businesses, schools, residents and industries in the city and nearby region.

BVU President Wes Rosenbalm and Chief Financial Officer Stacey Bright attended the conference.

Other cities included in the final seven are Eindhover, Netherlands; Frederickton, New Brunswick, Canada; Issy-les-Loulineaux, France; Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada; Stockholm, Sweden; and Tallin, Estonia.

“Each of the top seven of 2009 have demonstrated ingenuity through innovative broadband applications and dedication to the future of their young and the growth of their communities,” ICF co-founder Louis Zacharilla said in a written statement.

More than 450 other communities worldwide applied for the recognition. In November 2008, the ICF announced Bristol was one of its Smart 21 semi-finalists. Five other U.S. cities were included among those semi-finalists.

The overall Intelligent Community of the Year winner will be announced May 15 in New York City.