Mainstream Fiber to partner with Decatur and Ripley counties
Jul. 3—Mainstream Fiber Networks is partnering with Decatur and Ripley counties to extend services to its rural communities as part of the State of Indiana's Next Level Connections Round 4 grant awards.
Led by the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs, the initiative is part of a significant multi-year effort to bridge the digital divide and provide high-speed internet access to underserved and unserved households in rural areas throughout Indiana.
Mainstream Fiber Networks submitted requests to produce over 6,000 miles of fiber designs, impacting over 120,000 service locations in rural Indiana.
"We are honored to have been chosen for these projects that will have a significant impact on both counties," Mainstream CEO Bryan Gabriel said. "I'm grateful for our team's dedication to securing this funding, and we look forward to working with our county partners to make high-speed internet a reality in their communities."
Mainstream will begin coordinating with county officials to conduct engineering studies and get proper permitting approvals to proceed with infrastructure development.
In addition to working with the NLC 4 grantees, Mainstream now sets its sights on the upcoming Broadband Equity Access and Deployment program later this year. The BEAD program provides Indiana counties an $868 million opportunity across the state.
Mainstream is supported by a significant strategic investment from global private investment firm Searchlight Capital Partners, L.P. Announced in 2023, the investment is anticipated to create numerous job opportunities across the state as Mainstream expands service to new markets.
About Mainstream Fiber Networks
Founded in Nashville, Indiana, Mainstream Fiber Networks is a Fiber to the Premise internet service provider that understands the need for high-speed internet in Indiana's rural communities.
To learn more, visit www.msfiber.net. — Information provided
