t Economic Developmen
g n i t c e n n o C ork a region to the global netw
cts are connecting je ro p nd a b d a ro b nt re Cur and underserved the region’s unserved twork. areas to the global ne “
nvestments in broadband technology create jobs and expand economic opportunities in rural America,” explains Jasper Schneider, USDA Rural Development State Director in North Dakota. “Broadband provides the capability for improved educational services, health care, public safety and spurs economic development.” Broadband allows users to access information via the Internet using one of several high-speed transmission technologies. Schneider notes that high-speed Internet is 21st century infrastructure and literally opens up the world to rural citizens; while decreasing the digital divide between urban and rural America. “Broadband successfully pairs hope with opportunity; it opens up avenues for rural
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entrepreneurs; it provides access to a worldwide marketplace; it improves the quality of life and allows people to communicate with family, friends and business contacts,” he says. “There is no doubt that broadband makes living in rural America more attractive, people can enjoy the benefits of living in a rural community while having access to people and information from around the world.” In Fiscal Year 2011, USDA provided funding for the following North Dakota projects: *BEK Communications Cooperative — $26,746,000 in loan funds will be used to expand a Fiber-To-The-Home (FTTH) broadband system. Upon completion of this RUS-funded project, 100 percent of BEK’s subscribers will be served by fiber. *SRT Communications, Inc.—$24,832,000 in
Rendering of the new s DCN Network Operation Center and Collocation facility in Bismarck, N. D. (Rendering courtesy of DCN)
24 Prairie Business
February 2012
Midcontinent Communications Sioux Falls Dish. (Photo courtesy of Midcontinent Communications)