Branstad, Reynolds Announce Broadband Expansion to Nearly 90,000 Homes Across Iowa

Press Release

"In Iowa, technology and access to broadband Internet is the great equalizer for our rural communities," said Branstad. "We have put a focus on broadband Internet expansion because if our small businesses are to compete in a global economy, our schools are to have access to an abundance of online learning resources and our farmers are to connect their modern equipment for precision farming, we must connect every acre with broadband infrastructure. I'm pleased that CenturyLink, Windstream, Frontier and Consolidated Communications are all choosing to invest in Iowa to connect our communities."

"To date, nineteen communities across our state have become certified Connected Communities. These cities and towns have demonstrated a commitment to continued economic growth by embracing the opportunity presented by 21st century technology," said Reynolds. "As an elected official who grew up in rural Iowa, I know that a key part of maintaining continued growth in all corners of our state is our vision to connect every acre with broadband Internet and becoming the most connected state in the Midwest."

The FCC created the CAF in 2011 to foster growth in broadband access by transitioning funding that was supporting rural landline service to broadband service.

Joining the governor and lt. governor at the press conference were Michael Sadler, Assistant Vice President Public Policy and Government Relations of CenturyLink, Gregory Gray, Iowa Operations Chief of Windstream, Jack Phillips, Director of Government and External Affairs of Frontier and Mike Shultz, Vice President Regulatory and Public Policy of Consolidated Communications.

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