123NET's New Long-Haul Fiber Route Enhances Michigan's Connectivity from Grand Rapids to Lansing

Enhancing Connectivity in Michigan: 123NET's New Fiber Route

In a groundbreaking development for Michigan's telecommunications infrastructure, 123NET, the state's largest carrier-neutral fiber optic network, has announced the commencement of a significant fiber long-haul route linking Grand Rapids and Lansing. This ambitious project represents an investment of $11 million and will span approximately 83 miles, aimed at enhancing internet services for numerous communities, businesses, and residents along this vital corridor.

According to Chuck Irvin, Chief Revenue Officer of 123NET, this new expansion is crucial as it not only connects the two major cities but also represents the final segment of a larger initiative that will ultimately link Detroit and Chicago. “This segment closes the final gap, ensuring a continuous high-capacity fiber route along a newly diversified path between cities,” he stated.

This latest project from 123NET is part of a broader trend of investment in West Michigan. In recent years, the company has engaged in various initiatives, including participation in an NTIA Middle Mile Grant and receiving two ROBIN grants that support substantial deployments in Allegan and Ottawa Counties. They have also constructed extensive fiber networks in downtown Kalamazoo and launched the Grand Rapids Internet Exchange. Each of these projects is interconnected, ultimately designed to boost internet performance across the state.

Currently, there exists a fiber route linking Grand Rapids to Lansing; however, this aging infrastructure is over two decades old, with a limited number of fibers and extensive aerial sections. The newly proposed route sets itself apart with a host of improvements. Not only will it take a more strategic path to serve underserved communities, but it will also feature brand-new, high-count fiber capable of supporting significantly higher transmission rates. With ample strands and spare capacity, this fiber network aims to meet Michigan's growing connectivity needs for the foreseeable future, with nearly 100% of its infrastructure placed underground.

As part of this project, 123NET is actively collaborating with several Michigan communities to seek out Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) funding, a federal initiative that allocates around $1.5 billion to the state. This funding aims to enhance the availability of affordable, high-speed internet across Michigan.

Construction on this essential fiber route is set to begin in early 2025 and is expected to be completed within 24 months. 123NET is encouraging communities, carriers, and businesses interested in leveraging this new route and securing BEAD funding to reach out for information on collaboration opportunities.

As connectivity becomes increasingly vital in today's digital landscape, initiatives such as these by 123NET are essential for closing the digital divide and ensuring all Michigan residents have access to reliable internet services. This venture will not only boost local economies but also lay the groundwork for future technological advancements in the region.

For more detailed information about the project or to inquire about potential collaborations, please visit 123NET's official contact page.