The Brainerd Dispatch reports…

Consolidated Telephone Company (CTC) was one of the grant recipients, receiving $2,292,790 in funding. This will be combined with an equal amount in matching funds from CTC, Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board, and St. Louis County. When successfully completed, the $4.6 million project will provide internet services – with speeds of up to 1Gig – to over 300 homes and businesses in portions of St. Louis, Morrison, and Crow Wing counties.

“It’s an honor to receive this award as it helps to further our mission of connecting more communities, especially in rural areas,” said Kristi Westbrock, CEO and General Manager at CTC. “We’re confident that better internet services will enhance the lives of everyone that lives, works, and visits these areas.”

Once complete, the project will allow rural residents to work and learn from home, access telehealth options, safely live in their homes longer, and increase communication. Access to reliable broadband is also proven to boost economic development, enabling businesses to reach new markets, gain new customers, streamline operations, and complete basic functions more effectively and efficiently.