Last week the Wisconsin Public Service Commission announced the winners of its 2022 Broadband Grant Funding Program awarding over $100 million from the American Rescue Plan Act for 83 projects including all nine projects submitted by Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services (PPCS).
The nine projects PPCS submitted cover 460 miles of broadband reaching nearly 2,400 homes and businesses in Pierce and St. Croix counties. PPCS worked closely with the Pierce County Economic Development Corporation, the towns of River Falls, Oak Grove, Trimbelle, and Ellsworth to bring fiber to the premises in these areas. Each town is utilizing their local ARPA investments as part of the commitment to deliver fiber. These projects will begin in 2022 and are slated to be completed by the spring of 2023.
“We are excited and ready for the challenge to deliver fiber to our communities. This is a transformational opportunity for residents and the partnerships we have formed with local townships and community members speaks volumes about the importance of connecting residents with reliable, high-speed internet” stated Nate Boettcher, PPCS’ president & CEO.
PPCS through its broadband subsidiary SwiftCurrent Connect is currently working on phase one of its broadband buildout by delivering fiber to 1,500 homes and businesses along a 175-mile stretch. Contractors have been working over the past several weeks and will continue to the end of the year. Over the next several years, PPCS is looking to build 800 miles of fiber and connect 5,500 locations who have largely been underserved by current providers.
“Our goal is to make sure every one of our community members has access to high-speed fiber service. It’s an important part of helping our members Live Better. We believe connectivity in our service area is as important as electricity was in the 1930’s. Being connected allows our community to stay relevant and ensures that we have long-term stability and opportunities for future generations.” Future information will be released around project timelines in early 2022. Customers can sign up and express interest by going to www.swiftcurrent.coop and clicking on the Check Now button on the main page.
