Two telecommunications providers in southern Minnesota are set to receive funding for projects to extend high speed internet service to unserved communities in Faribault and Martin Counties, thanks to funding included in last session’s Jobs and Economic Development bill. The funding is being distributed as part of Minnesota’s Border to Border Broadband program.

The providers, each doing business as BEVCOMM, will receive a total of $422,760 for the projects.

“Having reliable high speed internet access is virtually a pre-requisite to participating in our economy,” said Senator Julie Rosen (R-Vernon Center). “That there are still so many families and small businesses throughout Greater Minnesota that don’t have access to this fundamental technology is a travesty, but every year we’re closing the gap more and more. This round of broadband funding will help a lot of people throughout Minnesota.”

Project details:

• Delavan area – The Easton Telephone Company will receive $220,350 to expand broadband access to 25 unserved households and 30 unserved businesses in Faribault County to promote economic development. Thanks to the funding, 100% of the households and businesses within the proposed serve area will be serviced. Total eligible project cost is $565,000, with a $344,650 local match.
• Granada area – The Grenada Telephone Company will receive $202,410 to expand broadband service in the Granada area to 35 unserved households and 21 unserved businesses. This round of funding will complete a grant that began last year. The total eligible project cost is $519,000. The local match is $316,590.

The new round of Border to Border Broadband funding included 39 projects around the state. These projects will service 9,973 households, 2,169 businesses, and 60 communities.