Dunn County Nearing Complete High-Speed Internet Coverage

Dunn County, Wisconsin: Bridging the Digital divide with high-Speed Internet

Dunn County, Wisconsin is making significant strides in it’s mission to provide every resident with access to high-speed internet. Dan Dunbar, assistant county manager and chief information officer, highlights the county’s unwavering commitment to closing the digital divide.

A Community-driven Approach to Connectivity

Two years ago, a dedicated Dunn County Broadband Task Force was established with a clear goal: to achieve universal broadband coverage within five years. “Granting residents access to this essential service is our vision,” states Dunbar,emphasizing the transformative impact this initiative will have on the community.

Broadband: More Than Just Browsing

“Broadband access offers a multitude of benefits for our residents,” explains Dunbar. “It opens doors to telehealth opportunities, enabling individuals to consult with healthcare providers remotely. For students, it provides access to valuable online educational resources, ensuring they have equal opportunities alongside their peers.”

the advantages extend far beyond education and healthcare.

Grant Funding Fuels Progress

The county’s progress in expanding broadband access is fueled by strategic grant funding. These grants have been instrumental in supporting infrastructure advancement and implementation, bringing high-speed internet to underserved areas.

Overcoming Rural Connectivity Challenges

Expanding broadband in a rural county like Dunn presents unique challenges, including vast distances and dispersed populations. Though, the county is actively working to overcome these obstacles.

Looking toward a Connected Future

Dunn County is on track to achieve its goal of universal broadband coverage in the near future. This visionary initiative promises to transform the lives of residents, fostering economic growth, educational equity, and improved healthcare access for all.

Dunn County, Wisconsin: bridging the Digital Divide with Broadband Expansion

Dunn County, Wisconsin, is on a mission to ensure every resident enjoys the benefits of high-speed internet access.Assistant County Manager and Chief Information Officer Dan dunbar, at the forefront of this transformative initiative, sheds light on the county’s enterprising plan for universal broadband coverage.

The Vision: Connecting Every Resident

“Our vision is to ensure that every resident in Dunn County has access to reliable, high-speed internet,” says Dunbar. “A few years ago, we formed the Dunn County broadband Task Force, which developed a five-year plan to make this a reality. We believe that access to broadband is not just a luxury but a necessity in today’s world. It’s about closing the digital divide and ensuring that everyone, regardless of where they live, has the same opportunities.”

transformative Benefits

Expanding broadband access promises to unlock numerous benefits for Dunn County residents. “Broadband access can increase property values, particularly in rural areas, and open up remote work possibilities for residents,” explains Dunbar.

Overcoming Rural Challenges

Delivering high-speed internet to rural areas presents unique challenges. “These are areas that have 40 to 50 houses that are very rural. A lot of distance between houses and areas that may be difficult to run fiber through, whether that’s rocks or clay or rivers or whatever it is that can make it hard to run service to those areas … it makes it very expensive for providers to get to them,” says Dunbar.

Despite these obstacles, the county is actively working with service providers and pursuing additional grants to bridge the connectivity gap. A significant step forward came in December when Bloomer Telephone Co. received a $4.6 million grant and a $4.6 million loan from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. This funding will directly impact nearly 1,278 people, 32 businesses, and 73 farms in Dunn and Chippewa county.

Near-Future Connection

Following the completion of current projects, Dunbar projects that only approximately 2% of county residents will remain without broadband access. Installation is slated to begin once the ground thaws in the spring, with an estimated completion timeframe of one to two years.

Bringing Broadband to the Heart of Rural America: A Dunn County Story

In the heart of Wisconsin, Dunn county is making strides towards a brighter future. Their weapon? Expanding access to high-speed internet. Dan Dunbar,a driving force behind this initiative,highlights the transformative power of this essential utility for rural communities.

The Transformative Potential of Connectivity

“Broadband access has far-reaching benefits,” says Dunbar, emphasizing the ripple effect it creates. He cites telehealth as a prime example, especially valuable in rural areas where healthcare access can be limited. For students, broadband levels the playing field, ensuring access to online resources and educational equity.

Moreover, Dunbar points out the economic benefits. Broadband can boost property values and open doors to remote work opportunities, revitalizing rural economies.

Overcoming Unique Challenges in Rural Expansion

Expanding broadband in rural areas is not without its hurdles. Dunbar acknowledges the challenges posed by scattered populations and difficult terrain. “We’re talking about areas with 40 to 50 houses spread out over large distances. Terrain issues like rocks, clay, and rivers can make it difficult and expensive to run fiber,” he explains.

Despite these obstacles, the county is undeterred. They are collaborating closely with service providers and actively pursuing additional grants, including the Broadband Equity, access, and Deployment (BEAD) grant, to bridge the digital divide.

A Significant Investment in the Future

A major boost came in the form of a $4.6 million grant and a $4.6 million loan from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Awarded to Bloomer Telephone Co., these funds will directly benefit nearly 1,278 people, 32 businesses, and 73 farms in Dunn and Chippewa Counties. This investment is a pivotal step towards extending infrastructure to underserved regions.

looking Ahead: Achieving Universal Coverage

The future looks bright for Dunn County. Installation is slated to begin this spring once the ground thaws, with an expected completion timeline of one to two years. Dunbar is optimistic, projecting that only about 2% of county residents will remain without broadband access by then.

“It’s an exciting time for Dunn County, and we’re committed to finishing the job,” he affirms.

A Vision for the Future:

How will Universal Broadband Shape Rural America?

Dunbar poses a thought-provoking question: “how do you think universal broadband access will transform rural communities like Dunn County in the next decade?” He envisions broadband as a catalyst for growth and innovation, leveling the playing field for rural residents in the global economy and enhancing their quality of life.

The story of Dunn County is a testament to the transformative power of connectivity.It’s a reminder that even in the most remote corners of America, the promise of a brighter future is within reach, powered by the invisible threads of high-speed internet.

Dunn County Leads the Way Towards Universal Broadband Access

In an era increasingly defined by digital connectivity, access to high-speed internet has become an essential building block for economic growth, educational opportunities, and overall quality of life. Recognizing this critical need, Dunn County is making strides towards ensuring that every resident has access to reliable broadband.

A Collaborative Approach to Bridging the Digital Divide

The county’s commitment to universal broadband is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation. Leaders like Dan Dunbar are spearheading this transformative project, working alongside community partners, technology providers, and residents to develop sustainable solutions.

This collaborative spirit is key to overcoming the challenges of bridging the digital divide and ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital age.

A Brighter future for all Residents

By investing in broadband infrastructure, Dunn County is creating a brighter future for all its residents. Access to high-speed internet will unlock new opportunities for education, telehealth, remote work, and entrepreneurship, empowering individuals and strengthening the local economy.

The impact of this initiative will be felt across all sectors of society, from students pursuing online learning to seniors accessing telehealth services, and businesses expanding their reach to new markets.

What is Dunn County’s vision for broadband access?

Interview with Dan Dunbar: Bridging the Digital Divide in Dunn County, Wisconsin

Archyde News Editor (ANE): Thank you for joining us today, Dan. Dunn County has been making headlines for its ambitious broadband expansion efforts. Can you tell us about the vision behind this initiative?

Dan Dunbar (DD): Absolutely, and thank you for having me. The vision is simple yet transformative: we want every resident in Dunn county to have access to reliable, high-speed internet. A few years ago,we established the Dunn County Broadband Task Force with a five-year plan to make this a reality. We believe broadband is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. It’s about closing the digital divide and ensuring that everyone, no matter where they live, has equal opportunities.

ANE: That’s a powerful vision. What specific benefits do you see broadband bringing to Dunn County residents?

DD: The benefits are far-reaching. For starters, broadband access can significantly increase property values, especially in rural areas. It also opens up remote work opportunities, which is a game-changer for our residents. Beyond that, it’s about improving quality of life. Telehealth, for example, is a huge benefit for rural communities where healthcare access can be limited. Students gain access to online educational resources, leveling the playing field with their peers in more urban areas.

ANE: Those are incredible benefits. But expanding broadband in rural areas isn’t without its challenges.what obstacles has Dunn County faced?

DD: You’re absolutely right. Rural broadband expansion comes with unique challenges. We’re dealing with areas that have 40 to 50 houses spread out over large distances. The terrain can be tough—rocks, clay, rivers—all of which make it expensive and technically challenging to run fiber. These factors make it less appealing for service providers to invest in these areas.

ANE: How is Dunn County overcoming these challenges?

DD: Collaboration and persistence are key. We’re working closely with service providers and actively pursuing grant funding to bridge the gap. For example, in December, Bloomer Telephone Co. received a $4.6 million grant and a $4.6 million loan from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. This funding will directly impact nearly 1,278 people, 32 businesses, and 73 farms in Dunn and Chippewa counties. We’re also exploring additional grants, like the Broadband Equity, Access, and deployment (BEAD) grant, to further our efforts.

ANE: That’s extraordinary progress. What’s the timeline for completing these projects?

DD: Once the ground thaws this spring, installation will begin. We estimate it will take one to two years to complete the current projects.Once they’re done, we project that onyl about 2% of county residents will remain without broadband access.

ANE: That’s a remarkable achievement. Looking ahead, what does the future hold for Dunn County’s broadband initiative?

DD: we’re on track to achieve our goal of universal broadband coverage within the next few years. This initiative isn’t just about connectivity—it’s about transforming lives.It’s about fostering economic growth, ensuring educational equity, and improving healthcare access. We’re committed to making Dunn County a place where everyone, irrespective of where they live, can thrive in the digital age.

ANE: Dan, thank you for sharing your insights and for your dedication to bridging the digital divide in Dunn county. We look forward to seeing the impact of this transformative initiative.

DD: Thank you. It’s been a pleasure, and we’re excited about the future.

End of Interview

This interview highlights Dunn County’s commitment to universal broadband access, the challenges of rural expansion, and the transformative benefits of connectivity for residents. Dan Dunbar’s leadership and the county’s collaborative efforts serve as a model for rural communities nationwide.