TDS Telecommunications LLC (TDS®) has kicked off construction on its fiber-to-the-home network in Great Falls. The Madison, Wisconsin-based company was recently granted design and permit approval from the city on the network that will ultimately connect nearly 30,000 homes and businesses across the community.
“A fiber network will allow Great Falls to attract, retain and expand job-creating businesses and institutions right here,” said Shane Etzwiler, president/CEO of the Great Falls Area Chamber of Commerce. “Economic development depends on broadband, and we are pleased to see TDS begin construction of its network. This will allow our businesses to compete in local, national, and global markets.”
TDS is working with CEC Facilities Group out of Irving, Texas to construct the network.
When the fiber network is complete, TDS will deliver up to 8Gig internet speeds for businesses and residents, along with a variety of phone and digital TV options. Area residents can visit TDSFiber.com to register for service, monitor the progress of the build, and sign up for notifications about the new service. TDS is also building its fiber network in Helena, Helena Valley, Butte, Missoula, and Billings.
In addition, TDS’ expansion into Great Falls will create new job opportunities, with new positions now posted on the company’s website. TDS has hired 83 associates in Montana since announcing two years ago it was building a fiber network in Big Sky Country.
TDS recently awarded $10,000 for Central Montana Works! and its flagship project, the Worlds of Work™ (WOW) Career Exploration. WOW is hosted at both the University of Providence and Great Falls College on Sept. 26, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., for 8th and 10th grade students from across the region This interactive event engages students through hands-on learning activities in all 16 career clusters. In addition to the student event, WOW is hosting an open house that day for members of the public to see what career opportunities are now available. The open house will be from 3 to 5 p.m.
###
MEDIA CONTACT: Cheryl McCollum | Associate Manager – Communications | TDS | 608-658-8158 (cell) | [email protected]
