The West Central Tribune reports…

The city of Willmar on Friday announced the launching of its online marketplace for the Connect Willmar Initiative.

The Connect Willmar Initiative is a community-driven effort to bring open-access, high-speed fiber internet to the city of Willmar, according to the news release.

“The launch of the marketplace marks an exciting milestone in our mission to deliver fast, reliable and affordable broadband to every corner of Willmar,” Willmar City Councilor Justin Ask said in the news release. “This is more than just internet — it’s about creating access, opportunity and a connected future for our entire community.”

The city has engaged the resources of Silverlight Fiber Network, which specializes in open-access networks, to provide a digital platform for information and customer sign-ups.

The Connect Willmar Initiative Marketplace, available now at silverlight-fiber.com/willmar, allows residents and businesses to view, select and compare the services and pricing of all participating internet service providers, according to the news release.