Salina, KS – June 12, 2024 – This week, Nex-Tech hosted the Kansas Office for Broadband Development (KOBD) to demonstrate the significant advancements in rural broadband infrastructure currently underway in Saline County. In 2023 Nex-Tech was awarded over $2.2 million from the Kansas Capital Project Funds (CPF) Broadband Infrastructure Program for Saline County. Nex-Tech is funding an additional $2,293,000, bringing the total project cost to $4,586,000. Construction of a new fiber optic network has started and is aimed at enhancing Internet connectivity in the region. This will bring broadband services to a residential neighborhood north of Salina and an area north and south of I-70 in the Hedville area. Construction has officially begun, and we are eager to connect more rural customers to high-speed Internet!

During the visit, attendees observed the substantial progress being made as construction crews actively engaged in digging, boring, pulling, and burying fiber and conduit along local roads. The tour provided a firsthand look at the heavy equipment in action and included a stop at Nex-Tech’s central office for an overview of the network equipment. Furthermore, representatives had the opportunity to visit Salina Tech and The Garage, where they heard testimonials from local customers benefiting from the improved broadband services.

The event saw participation from a diverse group of stakeholders, including staff from the Kansas Office for Broadband Development and representatives from the offices of Senator Moran and Senator Marshall. Additionally, the Salina Area Economic Development Organization, the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce, the Salina Public Library, the Saline County Administrator, Salina Tech, and The Garage were also in attendance, underscoring the community’s collective support and interest in advancing local broadband capabilities.

“Nex-Tech is committed to bridging the digital divide in rural Kansas, and the commencement of this fiber optic project marks a significant milestone in our efforts,” said Dustin Schlaefli, Director of Customer Engagement of Nex-Tech. “We are thrilled to collaborate with KOBD and our community partners to bring cutting-edge internet infrastructure to Saline County, ensuring our residents have access to the high-speed connectivity they deserve.”

The $2.2 million grant awarded to Nex-Tech in 2023 has been pivotal in launching this essential project, aimed at providing reliable and fast internet services to underserved areas within Saline County. As construction progresses, Nex-Tech remains dedicated to fostering technological growth and enhancing the quality of life for rural Kansans.