From Paul Bunyan Communications…

Paul Bunyan Communications will be expanding its all-fiber optic network, the GigaZone®, to over 600 more locations in Itasca and St. Louis County this year across five townships.
This project includes areas south and west of the city of Cook including parts of the following townships: Alango, Carpenter, Field, Sturgeon, and an unorganized township east of Carpenter.
Once the new all-fiber optic network is operational, homes and businesses can get fast, dependable GigaZone™ Internet and WiFi built to keep every device connected. Voice services, including unlimited local and long-distance will also be available. Business customers will gain access to Managed IT Business Services like VOIP, Disaster Backup and Recovery, and Network Management. In addition, Paul Bunyan Communications is an authorized DIRECTV dealer and certified Apple Service Center. There is no membership fee to join the cooperative. membership begins when you subscribe to GigaZone™ Internet or local phone service.
Construction will take place over the summer with services expected to be available by winter. To get connected, residents and businesses need to sign up for service before construction leaves the area. Sign up online, over the phone, or in person at our Grand Rapids Customer Service & Technology Center. To check to see if a specific location is within an expansion area and sign up for services, visit https://paulbunyan.net/
“Expanding our all-fiber optic network into more rural areas around our current service territory reflects our long-standing commitment to the region,” said Chad Bullock, CEO and General Manager of Paul Bunyan Communications. “Access to reliable, high-quality internet is essential for economic growth, education, and quality of life. As a cooperative, we continue to invest in our region to bring more homes and businesses have the connectivity they need to succeed.”
“Our 2026 expansion marks another important step in extending the reach of our all-fiber optic network,” said Leo Anderson, Chief Technology Officer of Paul Bunyan Communications. “By delivering fast, reliable connectivity with the capacity to scale for future needs, we’re making sure residents and businesses have the tools they need to thrive, today and for years to come.”
This project is made possible through the State of Minnesota, Department of Employment & Economic Development, Low-Density Population Broadband Infrastructure Development Grant Program. This project is estimated to cost $7,810,355, with the State of Minnesota’s Low-Population Density Program grant contributing $3,924,157, Paul Bunyan Communications investing $2,203,928, Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation (IRRR) investing $1,000,000, St. Louis County investing $583,250, Alango Township $41,200, Field Township $17,800, and Sturgeon Township $40,000.