Western Iowa Networks (WIN) has announced they will begin work this summer on a fiber optic network in Mills County using funds recently allocated through the Empower Rural Iowa Broadband Grant program. The grant from the Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO) will aid in construction in southwestern Mills County to bring fiber optic services to over 250 more homes and businesses. “Many of the folks in this area are having to rely on their internet connection for educating their children or for their career, and due to geographical and other challenges, have struggled to get a good wireless connection where they live or conduct business,” says WIN CEO, Jeff Roiland. “With construction of this network, these folks will be able to have the advantages of living in the country but have a broadband connection with no limits. This connection will allow them to hold Zoom meetings, stream video and much more without interruption.” The addition of this new area brings the total number of residents and businesses in Mills County served by WIN to more than 2,100. Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2021.
