ESCANABA – Highline, a leading provider of high-speed internet and telecommunications services, announced the continuation of its significant investment in expanding fiber internet access in the Upper Peninsula. 2025 is year four of Highline’s initiative to bring ultra-fast, reliable internet access to thousands of homes and businesses in Marquette, Iron, Schoolcraft, Luce, Mackinac and Chippewa counties fostering economic growth and enhancing connectivity for residents and business owners.

Key Highlights:

Extensive Coverage: The project will encompass 1,400 miles of new fiber optic cable, reaching 14,000 homes and businesses with both Internet and Voice services.

Ultra-Fast Speeds: Residents and businesses can expect internet speeds up to 2Gbps, enabling seamless streaming, video conferencing, online gaming, and more.

Enhanced Reliability: Fiber optic technology offers superior reliability compared to traditional DSL, satellite or cable service minimizing downtime and ensuring consistent connectivity.

Enhanced Services: Each customer will have access to a command app which gives visibility and actionable management of the devices in the home or business, protection of the network against malicious threats and viruses, and exceptional controls at the person and device level.

Economic Impact: The expansion is expected to create hundreds of jobs during construction and support local businesses by providing access to high-speed internet.

Future-Proof Infrastructure: Fiber optic networks are designed to accommodate future bandwidth demands, ensuring that customers have access to cutting-edge technology for years to come.

“Highline is committed to expanding our fiber network in 2025 and beyond” said Bruce Moore President and General Manager – Midwest. “Highline’s network will ultimately serve over 50,000 homes and businesses in the Upper Peninsula and our plan is to start 2025 construction as quickly as possible once winter is over.”

“Our students and community members are hungry for critical broadband that is equitable and affordable. Our rural nature and geographic isolation are true barriers for equitable opportunities for our students and economic development of our communities. We applaud the work Highline has accomplished and look forward to the results of adding new homes in 2025,” said Angie McArthur, Ed.D Superintendent of the Eastern Upper Peninsula School District.

Construction Timeline:

Construction for 2025 is scheduled to begin in June and is expected to be completed by the end of November. Residents and businesses in the affected areas will be notified of construction activities in advance.