BASCOM—Bascom Communications and North Central Electric Cooperative Inc. (NCE) have joined forces to bring high-speed fiber optic connectivity to the rural areas of Seneca and Crawford County, solidifying their commitment to serving their communities. This groundbreaking collaboration involves a $26 million fiber installation project aimed at improving communication infrastructure and empowering members with cutting-edge technology. By leveraging the existing infrastructure of electric poles, this innovative initiative seeks to bridge the digital divide and provide cooperative members with reliable and affordable internet connectivity.
Bascom Communications is proud to announce that it has secured $3 million in grant funding from The Ohio Department of Development, Office of BroadbandOhio, through the Ohio Broadband Strategy. The strategy, launched to promote broadband deployment and adoption throughout the state, includes efforts to expand broadband infrastructure, foster public-private partnerships, and provide resources for community-led broadband projects.
At the local level, the funding from the Ohio Broadband Strategy will contribute to 31 percent of the initial investment required for the first phase of fiber infrastructure. This phase aims to create multiple rings throughout Seneca County, which will serve as the backbone for the NCE/Bascom expansion. Approximately 148.1 miles of new fiber and 57.2 miles of existing fiber will be installed, passing approximately 1,615 new homes and businesses. Additionally, Wi-Fi access points will be installed at each township office that agrees to participate, allowing residents to access free Wi-Fi.
“Rural Americans deserve and expect the same access and availability as those in urban areas. Like the build-out of electric infrastructure in the ’40s, we once again find ourselves advocating for these necessities that every American needs to live a full and happy life. North Central is proud to be this advocate for our members and looks forward to this growing collaboration with Bascom,” said Edward VanHoose, President/CEO of NCE.
This ambitious initiative represents a significant milestone in bridging the digital divide and fostering economic growth in the region. The partnership ensures that rural areas in the county will no longer be left behind in the digital era.
“The $3 million grant allows us to create the backbone for a much larger deployment that will finally fill in the gaps in broadband coverage that have existed in our area for far too long. The economic, educational, and quality of life impacts to residents and businesses will be transcendent. Pairing this with the community-led approach of the two co-ops is a recipe for success,” said Nate Brickner, General Manager/CEO of Bascom Communications.
This visionary collaboration exemplifies the cooperative spirit and dedication to community service of both cooperatives. By leveraging their collective strengths, Bascom Communications and NCE are leading the charge in transforming the rural areas around them into a digitally connected hub, serving as a model for other communities.
“This project is another great example of how our broadband expansion efforts are improving the quality of life for Ohioans in rural areas,” said Ohio Lt. Governor Jon Husted. “Thanks to this regional partnership, more residents of Seneca and Crawford Counties can connect to high-speed internet and be part of the modern economy, education, and healthcare system.”
To learn more about the project or receive updates from Bascom Communications, please visit bascomcommunications.com/nce/.
