internet

Empire Access, a service provider for many customers in Batavia is experiencing a service outage that seems to be affecting more than just local customers.

The outage has also been reported in Elmira.

The company issued the following statement on Twitter.

Internet service update - we’re currently experiencing an internet service interruption, which may effect your connection. Our technicians are working to restore service. We apologize for the inconvenience.

— Empire Access (@EmpireAccess) May 18, 2021

We've attempted to reach a company spokesman for more information and have not yet received a response.

UPDATE 12:58 p.m.: Service has been restored, per Empire Access.

Internet service is now restored. If you are still experiencing issues with connecting to the Internet, please call our office at 800-338-3300.

Press release:

Empire Access has extended their two months of free internet service through June 30 for families with students who do not currently have Empire internet.

Houesholds with K-12 and/or college students can sign up for two months of free Empire Access internet service with Wi-Fi. There are no contract required for this service and installation is free.

“We are committed to helping our local school districts and communities during these unprecedented times. Internet access plays an extremely vital role in education while schools are closed due to the Covid-19 pandemic,” said Jim Baase, COO of Empire Access.

To sign up for this free Internet service, families can call (844) 502-7089. The Empire Access call center is open 24/7.

This service includes Empire Access standard Internet speeds and is available only in existing Empire Access service areas. After two months of free service, standard rates will apply.

Empire has also partnered with local school districts to provide Wi-Fi hotspots throughout communities for students to access.

Empire Access is part of a locally/family-owned and operated company; rooted from a telephone company founded in 1896. The organization has long been recognized for their knowledgeable, reliable and responsive service. Live customer support is available at all times.