BLAIR, Neb., Jan. 12, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- American Broadband, Nebraska today announced the approval of its application for grant funding to connect rural communities with reliable high-speed internet service through the Nebraska Broadband Bridge Program. The $776,000 grant awarded by the Nebraska Public Service Commission will support the expansion of American Broadband, Nebraska’s fiber broadband network, adding capacity to serve eastern Nebraska residential and business locations in Saunders, Dodge and Washington counties. Customers in Leshara, Nickerson and Fontanelle, Nebraska, are anticipated to begin being served by the expanded network in 2023.
The Nebraska Legislature appropriated the funding for the American Broadband, Nebraska expansion and other projects by passing the Nebraska Broadband Bridge Act, sponsored by Sen. Curt Friesen of Henderson, Nebraska. The bill makes eligible $40 million in funding to internet providers over two years to expand access to broadband capable of download/upload speeds of 100/100 megabits per second (Mbps). American Broadband, Nebraska’s fiber backbone offering provides up to 1Gbps of high-speed internet services – significantly faster speeds than what is currently offered in the expansion area and beneficial for common uses like e-commerce, data transmission and teleconferencing, as well as virtual and distance learning.
“The Nebraska Broadband Bridge Act provides essential resources for reliable and improved broadband services to rural communities. We are grateful for the Nebraska Legislature’s unanimous support of the bill and Senator Curt Friesen’s commitment to its success,” said Timothy Johnson, president and general manager of American Broadband, Nebraska. “We believe everyone should have access to quality and reliable internet service and are excited to serve future customers in Nebraska with previously unrealized speeds.”
The Nebraska Legislature’s approval of allocating funding for broadband expansion comes as state governments throughout the country secure resources to improve connectivity and close the digital divide affecting rural communities. Through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, more than $40 billion in federal funding is allocated for state broadband deployment grants to connect unserved and underserved communities, bringing broadband access to millions of Americans.
Chris Eldredge, CEO of American Broadband, said the expansion in Nebraska is part of the company’s next phase of growth, which also includes continuous organic expansion and acquisition initiatives in the year ahead.
“Having reliable, high-speed internet service is becoming an increasingly important part of daily life. We are excited to soon be offering enhanced internet services in eastern Nebraska and beyond,” Eldredge said. “In addition to this critical infrastructure funding investment in the state, American Broadband is committed to its continued investment in our network and services.”
About American Broadband Holding Company
American Broadband is one of the leading providers of broadband for Rural America. The company provides phone access lines, video, and broadband service to customers in rural communities in Nebraska, Missouri, Alaska, Louisiana, and Texas. The Company’s operating brands include American Broadband, Cameron Communications and TelAlaska. American Broadband partners in the growth and economic vitality of its communities by providing broadband and other advanced services and by contributing to and supporting new business activity and job growth. American Broadband retains local management and staff at each of its local operations to ensure continued superior levels of service to our customers. More information about the Company can be found at www.americanbroadband.com.
American Broadband is a portfolio company of Madison Dearborn Partners, LLC, a leading private equity firm based in Chicago, and Catania ABC Partners.
Contacts:
Lukas Partners
Brian Ayers
402-895-2552 ext. 308 / bayers@lukaspartners.com
American Broadband Holding Company
Bob O’Keefe
475-323-8884 / bokeefe@americanbb.com
