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Rolls of dark fiber cable waiting for network install

Bringing Connectivity to Underserved Areas in Ottawa County

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123NET’s Update Center for the Ottawa County Broadband Project

What is Our Goal?

123NET’s goal is to provide rural households and businesses with the best internet option in Michigan today. Michigan must have an infrastructure that effectively supports the economy and future objectives. Together, we are working towards:

  • Providing County-Wide Access to the Internet
  • Increasing Performance Over Existing Networks
  • Supporting Public Safety
  • Providing Economic Strength
  • Improving the Quality of Life

Important Dates:

  • March 14, 2023: Ottawa County Board of Commissioners approved letter of intent and selected 123NET for Ottawa County Broadband Project.
  • March 14, 2023: 123NET submitted ROBIN Grant Application for Government Funding of the Project.
  • March – April 2023: ROBIN Application Review
  • May 2023: ROBIN Award Recommendations Published & Start of Comment/Objection Period
  • June – July 2023: ROBIN Final Grants Announced
  • August 2023: Ottawa County & 123NET determine final scope of work based on ROBIN funding amounts.

Michigan Houses Lacking Access to Broadband
456,000+
Michigan Houses Lacking Any Access to Broadband
Michigan has at least 456,000 homes that lack access to broadband.
Fiber Lit Buildings
1.24M
Households Without a Permanent Internet Option
An estimated 1.24 million Michigan households (31.5%) do not have a permanent, fixed internet connection at home.
fixed wireless tower
20th
Lowest Broadband Adoption Rate
Michigan has the 20th lowest broadband adoption rate when compared to other states.
Fiber Miles Installed
10,000
Addresses Connected in Proposed Project
The Ottawa County project plans to connect a planned 10,000 addresses in rural areas of Ottawa County.

*Data derived from 2021 Update to the Michigan Broadband Map – Michigan Office of High-Speed Internet

Government Funding: Bridging the Divide

Digital inequity in Michigan is prevalent, and it’s efforts have contributed greatly to the development of rural and home-based businesses as well as tele-commuting. Over the last few years, Michigan and the US Government has taken critical steps to address the digital divide including providing funding for infrastructure and community development like the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), Realizing Opportunity with Broadband Infrastructure Networks (ROBIN) Grant Program, and other funding opportunities.