Subcontractors have been actively laying fiber optic cables in multiple areas of Noble County, evidence of the ongoing work to expand the availability of high-speed broadband Internet to the residents and businesses across the region. Internet service providers (ISPs) are now eyeing more funding opportunities, announced in recent weeks, to keep the momentum going.

The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program, made possible under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law passed in November 2021, provides $42.45 billion nationwide. Indiana will receive more than $868 million, according to recent media reports. So far, the state has seen about $5 million come in. The Indiana Broadband Office is tasked with the distribution of federal funds. Indiana’s NextLevel Connections Broadband Program also announced this week that another $350 million will be invested in “Round 4” of that initiative.

The good news for Noble County is that, compared to similar communities, the region is well ahead of the curve when it comes to its “readiness” to take advantage of BEAD and the next round of NextLevel funds. While many areas of the Hoosier state continue to struggle with the necessary right-of-ways, access to utility poles, and permits, Noble County has contractors deployed on a daily basis, actively expanding local fiber optic networks.

“Our current fiber coverage will continue to expand in the next 18-24 months,” explains Josh Wentworth, chief technology officer for LigTel Communications, an ISP founded and headquartered in Ligonier. “We expect significant portions of recent expansion projects to be complete in the next ninety days.”

A look at LigTel’s deployment map in 2019, compared to the latest version, reflects great progress. Homes and businesses in many areas of the county, as well as in the southeastern quadrant of Noble County, can now choose to enjoy high quality, high-speed Internet service delivered via LigTel’s fiber optic network. The company sees no signs of slowing down any time soon.

Projects are also underway near South Milford, in northeast Noble County. Albion is under construction, with Cromwell getting set for upgrades and expansions.  In addition to physical expansion projects, the company is currently updating their website to include interactive tools on the home page that enable a user to submit an address to learn if it is in an area served now, or may be served soon.

Under Indiana’s NextLevel Connections program, LigTel was awarded about 14% of all funds approved in round three, as announced in early 2022. Those funded projects, as well as other projects the company is undertaking, represent an investment of more than $26 million to bring high speed internet service to over 7,500 more homes and 400 more businesses. Wentworth says the announcements of BEAD and Round 4 of NextLevel Connections reflect some “new rules” that will slightly change the company’s strategies, but in no way slow the progress.

Other ISPs in the region, specifically those offering Internet connectivity via DSL, wireless, or satellite systems, may be less likely to receive funding from NextLevel Connections, unless they look to provide “last mile” connectivity in unserved areas and can deliver the required speeds consistently. 

LigTel Communications has been serving the Ligonier area since 1896 and looks forward to bringing fiber optic connectivity to all of Noble County in the coming years. The company has a rich history of providing the latest technology to their “friends and neighbors” and is committed to continuing to do so.

Visit www.ligtel.com or call (260) 894-7161 for assistance in determining service options for your business or home.