High-speed internet lights up rural Nebraska

By Scout Nelson

In Nebraska's Thayer County, a project is underway, aimed at bridging the digital divide that has long separated its rural residents from the rest of the world. Spearheaded by Rural Prosperity Nebraska and Thayer County Economic Development, this initiative is a beacon of hope for farmers, ranchers, and families living in areas where the internet was once considered a luxury.

The challenge of connecting remote areas to the internet is not unique to Thayer County, but the approach they've taken is. The strategy, known as "last-mile funding," targets the hardest-to-reach residents, providing them with affordable and reliable broadband service. This effort is crucial in an era where the internet is considered as essential as water and electricity.

Jason Tuller, a key figure in this mission, highlights the inadequacy of existing services like satellite internet, which is often expensive and slow. The goal is to make high-speed internet accessible and affordable for everyone in the county, regardless of their location.

The collaboration between local authorities and Glenwood, a telecommunications company, is made possible through a mix of local, state, and federal funding, including the Nebraska Broadband Bridge Program. This partnership is set to lay down 50 miles of fiber, connecting 54 homes to the modern digital world.

The effort to identify the unserved and underserved was a community-wide endeavor, relying on detailed local knowledge to ensure that the broadband network reaches those who need it most.

This meticulous planning means that soon, residents who were once isolated will have access to the vast resources of the internet, from educational opportunities to entertainment and beyond.

Carley Bruning, leading the charge at Thayer County Economic Development, envisions a future where internet connectivity attracts new residents and strengthens the local economy. She dreams of a county where every home is not only a place of shelter but a connected hub that supports working, learning, and thriving in the digital age.

As Thayer County moves forward with its broadband project, set to be completed by autumn, it sets an example for other rural communities across the nation.

This initiative not only addresses the immediate needs of its residents but also lays the foundation for a future where geographical location no longer dictates access to information, opportunity, and connection.

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