BRAINERD — Consolidated Telephone Company recently secured a state-of-the-art, all-fiber network spanning nearly 610 miles in northeast Minnesota, allowing them to provide high-speed, reliable internet services to businesses and residents throughout the area.
A newly established, long-term partnership agreement with the Northeast Service Cooperative allowed for the growth. The network represents 3,160 route miles of fiber: a 20% increase in CTC’s service area. CTC reports, most importantly, the move will boost the economic capacity of the region, more readily allowing for business growth and workforce development.
“Not only does this tie in with our strategic plan but it will spur business innovation and lead to more job opportunities,” said Kristi Westbrock, CEO/general manager at CTC, in a news release. “Plus, it will allow us to have a deeper connection with local cities and townships and more easily secure state and federal funding to get internet to those who need it most.”
“CTC has a proven track record serving Northern Minnesota with reliable telecommunications services and innovative business solutions,” said Paul Brinkman, executive director at Northeast Service Cooperative.
“We are delighted to enter into a long-term partnership with CTC to expand high-capacity broadband access and job-creating business development in St. Louis and Carlton Counties.”
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The fiber network spans the cities of Cloquet, Hibbing, Chisholm, Mountain Iron, Virginia, Eveleth, Gilbert, Biwabik, Tower, Ely, Aurora, and the surrounding areas and will provide broadband internet of up to 10 gigabits. For more information and a map of the area visit www.goctc.com/NESC .
CTC is a technology adviser and full-service telecommunications company based in Brainerd. Formed in 1952, CTC has grown into a complete communications provider offering telephone, high-speed internet, digital television, and information technology services to businesses and individuals throughout central and northern Minnesota.
