Current and Recent Projects

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City of Willmar, Minnesota

Project: Municipal Owned Broadband Network
Client: City of Willmar, Minnesota
Contact: Kyle Box, City Operations Director
Email: kbox@willmarmn.gov
Phone: 320-214-5172
 

Following a series request with various local internet providers to make improvements they soon realized local providers were not interesting helping Willmar. Hometown Fiber's engagement with the City of Willmar began with our response to a Request for Proposal (RFP) to improves its internet. Willmar was inspired by Hometown Fiber’s proposal that followed other successful open access fiber networks in states like Utah, Ohio, and California. Despite the novelty of this concept in Minnesota, the city recognized the potential benefits of implementing a similar model.
 

Proposal and Concept

Hometown Fiber's proposal stood out for its vision to introduce a city owned fiber optic network to Willmar. Our approach involved designing a proprietary network that offers both construction and neutral operations. This model allows local residents to benefit from increased choice in internet service providers, as competition among providers drives better services and pricing.
 

Network Design and Funding

Given that nearly the entire community of Willmar, with a population of 21,015, already had cable service and did not qualify for traditional grants, the city opted to fund the project through municipal bonds. This funding strategy will support the development of a robust fiber optic infrastructure that provides the infrastructure required for high-speed internet to all its residents.
 

Project Impact

The new fiber optic network will offer Willmar’s residents a range of internet service options, enhancing connectivity and service quality within the community. By adopting this innovative approach, Willmar is setting a precedent for broadband infrastructure development in Minnesota, ensuring that its residents benefit from cutting-edge technology and improved choices.
 

Hometown Fiber’s collaboration with the City of Willmar represents a significant step forward in municipal broadband development. Our proposal and subsequent work are paving the way for a more connected and competitive internet landscape in the region. Prospective clients interested in pioneering broadband solutions can rely on Hometown Fiber for expert guidance and effective implementation strategies that drive community progress and enhance connectivity.

 

 

 

 
 

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Taylor County, Wisconsin

Project: Broadband Awareness and Verification, Conceptual Design, and Broadband Consulting
Client: Taylor County, Wisconsin
Contact: Grant Bub, Broadband Coordinator
Email: grant.bub@co.taylor.wi.us
Phone: 715-785-8359
 

In recent years, Taylor County, Wisconsin, has made significant strides in addressing its broadband needs. Despite several efforts to tackle the issue independently, the county faced a mixture of successes and challenges. Hometown Fiber stepped in to provide expert guidance, ensuring a comprehensive and efficient approach to broadband expansion.
 

Broadband Awareness, Verification and Analysis

Hometown Fiber began by conducting an in-depth review of the county’s existing and planned broadband efforts. We meticulously analyzed available data, studies, reports, maps, and other relevant information. This thorough examination allowed us to understand the county’s current situation and avoid duplicating past efforts. By listening to the concerns and priorities of the local community, we ensured that our recommendations were aligned with what truly mattered to Taylor County’s residents and stakeholders.
 

Data Consolidation and Evaluation

Our team consolidated and verified the data gathered during the analysis phase. This step was crucial in identifying the most viable path forward for the county’s broadband development. By leveraging advanced data analytics, we were able to pinpoint gaps and opportunities within the existing infrastructure, setting the stage for a well-informed and strategic approach.
 

Conceptual Design for a Fiber Optic Network

Building on our data-driven insights, Hometown Fiber developed a conceptual design for an efficient fiber optic network. This design aimed to provide comprehensive coverage, reaching all homes, businesses, and publicly owned facilities currently lacking fiber optic connectivity. Covering an expansive area of 984 square miles and serving a population of 19,913 residents, our conceptual design was tailored to meet the unique needs of Taylor County.
 

Technical Model for Funding Applications

The conceptual design also included a technical model, which is often a critical component for grant and funding applications. By providing this detailed model, Hometown Fiber equipped Taylor County with the necessary tools for the implementation of the broadband network. This strategic approach ensures long-term solutions that will benefit the community for decades to come.
 

Hometown Fiber’s expertise in broadband verification, analysis, and design has positioned Taylor County on a clear path towards enhanced connectivity. Our commitment to understanding local needs and leveraging data-driven insights guarantees that our recommendations are both effective and sustainable. Prospective clients looking to improve their broadband infrastructure can trust Hometown Fiber to deliver customized, impactful solutions that drive community progress.

 

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St. Croix County, Wisconsin

Project: Broadband Awareness and Verification
Client: St. Croix County, Wisconsin
Contact: Ken Witt, County Administrator
Email: ken.witt@sccwi.gov
Phone: 715-381-4302

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With the recent surge of federal funding for broadband infrastructure and the rapid deployment by providers, St. Croix County, Wisconsin, sought an up-to-date and accurate understanding of its broadband progress. Hometown Fiber was tasked with providing this critical insight through a comprehensive Broadband Verification project.
 

Broadband Awareness, Verification and Data Analysis

To achieve a precise understanding of the current state of broadband efforts, Hometown Fiber conducted extensive field verifications across St. Croix County. Our team gathered and analyzed data, comparing it to publicly available information. This rigorous process ensured that the county received a clear and accurate picture of broadband coverage and progress.

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Accurate and Current Broadband Status

By meticulously collecting and verifying the data, Hometown Fiber provided St. Croix County with an up-to-date status of broadband deployment. This information is vital for the county to understand the actual coverage, identify gaps, and make informed decisions regarding future broadband initiatives.

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Comprehensive Project Scope

This project covered an area of 736 square miles, encompassing a population of 95,536 residents. The detailed and verified data offered by Hometown Fiber enables St. Croix County to strategically plan and prioritize its broadband efforts, ensuring that all residents have access to high-quality internet services.

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Hometown Fiber’s expertise in broadband verification has empowered St. Croix County with the knowledge needed to navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of broadband infrastructure. Our commitment to accuracy and thorough analysis ensures that the county is well-positioned to address the connectivity needs of its residents. Prospective clients seeking to enhance their broadband efforts can rely on Hometown Fiber to deliver precise, actionable insights that drive community advancement.

 

 

 

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Sheboygan County, Wisconsin

Project: Broadband Verification
Client: Sheboygan County, Wisconsin
Contact: Chris Lewinski, Director of Information Technology
Email: chris.lewinski@sheboygancounty.com
Phone: 920-459-0335

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To make informed decisions about future investments in broadband infrastructure, Sheboygan County, Wisconsin, sought to establish an accurate and comprehensive understanding of its current broadband landscape. Hometown Fiber was entrusted with this critical task through a Broadband Verification project.

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Identification and Verification of Broadband Infrastructure

Hometown Fiber began by identifying communication infrastructure throughout Sheboygan County. Our team conducted thorough collections and verifications of existing assets to ensure broadband claims were accurately represented. This process was essential for understanding the true state of broadband availability in the county.

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Service Scoring Against Market Demand

We also evaluated the available broadband services at properties and scored them against market demand. This analysis provided Sheboygan County with valuable insights into where service gaps existed and where future investments could have the most significant impact.

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Comprehensive Reporting and GIS Integration

Hometown Fiber delivered both printed and online reports, as well as interactive maps and GIS layers of broadband technology, covering the entire county. These resources equipped Sheboygan County with detailed, actionable information, allowing for strategic planning and decision-making.

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Project Scope

This project covered an extensive area of 1,271 square miles and served a population of 118,034 residents. The verified data and insights provided by Hometown Fiber are crucial for Sheboygan County to ensure its broadband improvements, investments are wise and effective, ultimately enhancing connectivity for its residents.

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Hometown Fiber’s expertise has provided Sheboygan County with the accurate data needed to make informed decisions. Our meticulous approach ensures that the county can strategically address its broadband infrastructure needs, aligning with market demand and maximizing the impact in efforts to improve its internet. Prospective clients seeking to enhance their broadband efforts can trust Hometown Fiber to deliver precise, comprehensive data that drive community progress.

 

 

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Chisago County, Minnesota

Project: Broadband Verification and Conceptual Design
Client: Chisago County, Minnesota
Contact: Chase Burnham, County Administrator
Email: Chase.Burnham@chisagocountymn.gov
Phone: 651-213-8830

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Chisago County, Minnesota, faced a challenge common to many regions: a mix of served, underserved, and unserved areas in terms of broadband connectivity. To address this, Hometown Fiber undertook a comprehensive Broadband Verification and Conceptual Design project.

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Identification and Verification of Broadband Coverage

Hometown Fiber identified and verified the broadband coverage across Chisago County. By collecting data from 15,000 data points, we could accurately evaulated the served, underserved, and unserved areas. This detailed information was crucial for determining which areas the county needed to prioritize for broadband improvements.

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Data-Driven Focus Areas

The extensive data collected provided valuable insights, enabling the county to focus its efforts on the area’s most in need of broadband services. This targeted approach ensures that resources are allocated effectively, maximizing the impact of the county’s broadband initiatives.

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Conceptual Design and Cost Estimates

In addition to the verification work, Hometown Fiber created a conceptual design and cost estimate for each of the 20 municipal boundaries within Chisago County. These designs provide a clear roadmap for expanding broadband infrastructure, including the associated costs, allowing for informed readiness in the planning and budgeting for broadband expansion.

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Comprehensive Project Scope

Covering an area of 442 square miles and serving a population of 56,621 residents, this project provided Chisago County with the detailed and actionable information needed to enhance its broadband expansion efforts strategically. The combination of collected, verified data and conceptual designs ensures that the county can effectively address its broadband connectivity challenges.

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Hometown Fiber’s expertise has empowered Chisago County with the awareness, knowledge and accurate data necessary to improve connectivity across the region. Our detailed approach ensures that the county can make informed decisions, prioritize efforts, investments, and ultimately provide better broadband services to its residents.

 

 

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Pine County, Minnesota

Project: Broadband Verification, Consulting and Construction Administration Services
Client: Pine County, Minnesota
Contact: Lezlie Sauter, Economic Development Coordinator
Email: lezlie.sauter@co.pine.mn.us
Phone: 320-591-0019

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Pine County, Minnesota, engaged Hometown Fiber for comprehensive broadband verification, consulting and construction administration services to enhance its broadband infrastructure. This project, covering an expansive 1,435 square miles and serving a population of 29,200 residents, involved a multifaceted approach to address the county’s broadband needs.

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Awareness and Readiness in Broadband Expansion

Hometown Fiber identified and verified the broadband coverage across Pine County. By collecting data from 18,000 data points, we could accurately identify the served, underserved, and unserved areas. This detailed information was crucial for determining which areas the county needed to prioritize for broadband improvements.

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Consulting Services

Hometown Fiber began by collaborating with Pine County to define priorities and goals. Our team conducted a detailed field study, verifying existing infrastructure, and assessed property level services to understand the current state of broadband coverage. We evaluated the technology in use, explored potential partnerships, and identified funding options to support the county’s broadband initiatives.

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Development of a County Grant Program

As part of our consulting services, we developed a county grant program tailored to Pine County’s specific needs. This program aimed to facilitate and streamline funding for broadband expansion, ensuring that resources were effectively utilized to improve connectivity across the county.

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Construction Administration

Following the consulting phase, Hometown Fiber was contracted to provide construction administration services for a broadband project funded directly by federal grants. Our role was to oversee the construction process, ensuring that the project was built to specifications and that public funds were used appropriately and in accordance with approved plans.

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Future Planning and Ongoing Support

Looking ahead, Hometown Fiber will continue to work with Pine County to address the remaining underserved and unserved areas. Our ongoing support will focus on strategizing and implementing solutions to extend broadband service to all residents and businesses, ensuring comprehensive coverage throughout the county.

Hometown Fiber’s extensive line of services have provided Pine County with a solid foundation for enhancing its broadband infrastructure. Our expert guidance has ensured the effective use of federal funding and has set the stage for future improvements in connectivity.

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Litchfield, Minnesota

Project: Private Municipal Fiber Optic Network & Data Center
Client: City of Litchfield, Minnesota
Contact: George Baldwin, Manager, Litchfield Electric Utility
Email: george.baldwin@ci.litchfield.mn.us
Phone: 320-296-1114

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Since 2004, Hometown Fiber’s founder Kyle Moorhead have been dedicated to serving the City of Litchfield, Minnesota. In 2010, the city faced significant challenges with unreliable communication between city buildings and utilities. This disruption impacted critical community infrastructure, including water, wastewater, electricity, water towers, pumps, meters, public safety, and essential city services such as phones and networked computer operations.

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Project Approach and Process

To address these challenges, Hometown Fiber embarked on a comprehensive project to design, construct, and operate a private fiber optic network and data center. The project began with in-depth meetings with city leadership to document goals and priorities. By thoroughly examining the city's existing challenges, the project team ensured that the solutions would not only resolve immediate issues but also accommodate future needs.

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Key Phases of the Project

1. Five-Year Technology Plan: Developed a phased, actionable technology plan to guide the implementation and future upgrades of the network.

2. Network Design: Created a private fiber optic network to connect city utilities and facilities, enhancing communication and operational reliability.

3. Project Management: Managed all aspects of the project from inception to completion, coordinating with city departments, local internet service providers, and contractors.

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Project Outcomes and Results

• Reliable Network: The new network has delivered enhanced reliability and performance, achieving an impressive 99.9995% uptime over 12 years. The only significant outage occurred in 2020 when a contractor accidentally disrupted the fiber optic line.

• Enhanced Security: By removing critical city services from the public internet, the network has significantly improved security.

• Low Operating Costs: The project has resulted in low ongoing operating and maintenance costs, making it a sustainable solution for the city's broadband needs.

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Long-Term Impact

The successful implementation of this private fiber optic network ensures that Litchfield enjoys reliable, high-speed broadband without ongoing government subsidies.
 

Hometown Fiber’s work with Litchfield underscores our ability to deliver effective, long-term solutions for municipal broadband challenges. Our comprehensive approach and successful project outcomes provide a blueprint for other communities seeking to enhance their connectivity infrastructure.

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Hopkins, Minnesota

Project: Private Municipal Fiber Optic Network
Client: City of Hopkins, Minnesota
Contact: Alex Hepp, Information Officer
Email: ahepp@hopkinsmn.com
Phone: 952-548-6305

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The City of Hopkins, Minnesota, faced challenges with its existing technology infrastructure, which relied on multiple, incompatible systems that failed to provide reliable city services. To address these issues, Hometown Fiber’s founder Kyle Moorhead undertook a project to design and build a private fiber optic network for the city.

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Project Approach and Implementation

The project began with a thorough assessment of Hopkins’ existing technology and its shortcomings. Recognizing the need for a unified and dependable system, Hometown developed a comprehensive plan to create a private fiber optic network that would connect key city buildings and departments.

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Key Features of the Network

• Design and Construction: The new network was designed and built to enhance city operations by integrating multiple services into a single, reliable system.

• Zero Downtime: Since its launch in 2015, the network has experienced zero downtime, ensuring uninterrupted city services and operations.

• Proprietary Elements: The network includes proprietary elements that facilitate easy utility locates, reducing maintenance issues and enhancing operational efficiency.

• Versatility: The infrastructure supports a range of applications, including SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) links, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone services, and high-speed data, providing the city with a flexible and robust network solution.

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Expansion and Future Growth

The success of the initial network has led to plans for further expansion. The City of Hopkins is now extending its network to accommodate growing demands and additional capabilities.

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Hometown Fiber’s project with the City of Hopkins highlights our ability to deliver innovative and reliable municipal broadband solutions. By addressing the city’s technology challenges and implementing a high-performance fiber optic network, we have significantly improved city operations and provided a foundation for future growth. Prospective clients seeking a dependable and scalable network solution can rely on Hometown Fiber for expert design, implementation, and support.

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