Grant for Fiber Network Expansion
Arvig has recently achieved a significant milestone by being awarded a grant from Minnesota's Border to Border Broadband Program. This funding is aimed at expanding fiber internet access to over 100 rural residences and businesses in central Minnesota.
Investment and Project Scope
The company plans to invest $708,790 from the grant into a comprehensive fiber network expansion over 26 miles. This ambitious project will provide gigabit internet speeds to 113 locations situated in Wakefield and Luxemburg townships, located south of Cold Spring.
Connecting the Underserved
With this expansion, a total of 46 previously unserved and 67 underserved locations will receive fiber internet service for the very first time. The robust network will support download speeds of up to 10 Gigabits-per-second, with an upload speed of 1 Gbps for regular users and up to 10 Gbps for business customers.
Importance of Fiber Internet
David Arvig, the Vice President and COO of the company, highlighted the growing necessity of high-speed fiber connections for both homeowners and businesses in rural Minnesota. He expressed that this grant funding plays a crucial role in bridging the connectivity gap, ensuring that underserved areas can compete on a more equitable basis.
Project Cost and Funding Breakdown
The total expenditure for this initiative is pegged at $1,575,089, which includes local matching contributions amounting to $866,299. Of this figure, Stearns County and the Townships will collectively contribute $661,537, while Arvig will cover the remaining $204,762.
Partnerships in Development
Michael Williams, the Stearns County Administrator, praised Arvig for its invaluable partnership in their efforts to bring high-speed internet to the rural regions of the county. The county looks forward to continuing this collaboration with Arvig on the fiber project.
Defining Underserved Areas
In Minnesota, a location is classified as underserved if it has internet access but with speeds falling below 100 Megabits per second for downloads and 20 Mbps for uploads. This definition underscores the necessity for projects like Arvig's to enhance connectivity in rural areas.
Timeline for Completion
Arvig is on track for the completion of the fiber network expansion before the end of 2026. This target highlights the company's commitment to rapidly improving internet access.
About Arvig
Arvig, an employee-owned telecommunications provider based in Perham, Minnesota, is dedicated to delivering top-tier technology services across the region. Offering a variety of options for residential and business clients, Arvig specializes in internet, television, phone, and security services, along with personalized business technology solutions.
Media Contact
For further inquiries, Rachel Laudenbach serves as the Communications Manager.
Arvig | 150 Second Street SW
218.346.8653 | Rachel.Laudenbach@arvig.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the grant awarded to Arvig?
The grant aims to expand high-speed fiber internet access to over 100 rural homes and businesses in Minnesota.
How much is Arvig investing in the project?
Arvig is investing $708,790 from the grant into this fiber network expansion project.
What speeds will the new fiber network provide?
The new network will offer up to 10 Gbps download speeds, with different options for residential and business users.
When is the project expected to be completed?
The project is targeted for completion before the end of 2026.
Who can benefit from this fiber network expansion?
The expansion will benefit 46 unserved and 67 underserved locations, bringing fiber internet access for the first time.
