PAW PAW, Mich. — High-speed fiber internet is coming to thousands of unserved and underserved residents in Van Buren County.
The money is part of the State of Michigan’s Realizing Opportunity with Broadband Infrastructure Networks (ROBIN), grant program.
3,734 Van Buren County residents will be connected to high-speed fiber internet by 2026, according to officials. Construction has already started in some areas in the county.
The grant comes after Market Van Buren, Van Buren County, 13 Van Buren County townships, DCS Technology Design, and Midwest Energy & Communications (MEC) came together to address the needs of rural residents who have lacked access to high-speed internet.
“As stated in the past, we are grateful for the partnerships that have made this opportunity possible,” Chair of the Van Buren County Board of Commissioners Randall Peat said in a statement. “… The establishment of a county-wide high-speed broadband system will enhance the health, safety, and well-being of county residents, guests, and the business community.”
Van Buren County will contribute more than $4.1 million while 13 of its townships will contribute almost $1.4 million.
The 13 townships include:
- Almena
- Antwerp
- Bangor
- Covert
- Decatur
- Hamilton
- Hartford
- Keeler
- Lawrence
- Paw Paw
- Pine Grove
- Porter
- South Haven
The overall project is also serving residents in Berrien, St. Joseph, and Cass County. MEC is investing $15.8 million while the state is contributing about $25.3 million.
“Six years ago, the Market Van Buren Board of Directors adopted a seven-point plan,” Executive Director of Market Van Buren Zach Morris said in a statement. “The top priority identified was broadband internet for every home and business in the county. Through the leadership of the county commissioners, along with the expertise of MEC and DCS Technology Design, we are now in a position to be the most connected rural county in the State of Michigan.”
Those interested in learning more or to find out their eligibility status can visit teammidwest.com/internet.
Tyler Fields is your internet guru, delving into the latest trends, developments, and issues shaping the online world. With a focus on internet culture, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies, Tyler keeps readers informed about the dynamic landscape of the internet and its impact on our digital lives.
