According to a recent Fiber Broadband Association (FBA) report, only 43 percent of households in the United States have access to fiber, putting residents in these communities in a select group with such access. To shore up this digital divide, TDS Telecommunications LLC has expanded rapidly in Idaho.
This week, the operator announced it will expand its all-fiber, high-speed internet network in more communities in the Boise and Twin Falls areas, giving additional homes and businesses access to superior internet speeds.
In the Treasure Valley, TDS will build an all-fiber network in Caldwell that will serve about 12,000 addresses. Meanwhile, TDS will build networks in Hansen, Heyburn, and Kimberly in the Magic Valley, serving more than 3,000 addresses.
The projects will bring up to 2Gig residential internet and up to 10Gig dedicated fiber connections for businesses.
In addition to internet, TDS notes its expansion in the state is bringing rural communities a new TV competitor. The company now offers its TDS TV+, a full-featured TV product to both residents and businesses. Phone options are also available.
TDS said it will build the new networks from the ground up, with construction expected to begin later this year. The networks will become available neighborhood by neighborhood, as work is completed.
TDS also began network construction in the Magic Valley this summer, with projects continuing in the Boise, Nampa, and Coeur d’Alene areas.
While work is ongoing, TDS has already been active in the communities and sponsoring major events such as Twin Falls Western Days, Downtown Nampa’s Third Thursdays, Meridian Dairy Days, the Western Idaho Fair, and many others.
“Idaho is a wonderful state for families and businesses, and we’re proud to continue to grow our presence here,” said Drew Petersen, TDS SVP of Corporate Affairs. “Our fiber network will help communities gain world-class infrastructure and support more growth and opportunity.”
