Photo – Redzone’s “Fast for 5” program will provide 100% funded community wireless broadband systems, completely designed, constructed, and managed by Redzone Wireless, in exchange for the local community guaranteeing a minimum level of broadband services for a 5-year term.
The new program was developed to increase the efficiency and complement the existing ConnectME Authority Broadband Grant program, as well as other Federal & State program supporting rural broadband development. Communities which apply and receive public grant funding may also qualify to participate in Redzone’s new broadband funding program.
“Communities across Maine have struggled to find a simple and efficient way to improve broadband service delivery in their area that is fast and affordable, while minimizing municipal financial risk,” said Jim McKenna, Redzone Wireless CEO. “We believe that this innovative model for funding municipal projects represents the first economically viable pathway for many of these small and mid-sized towns to get better internet service in the near term. Fixed wireless broadband can be installed in a few short months, and for a fraction of the cost of wireline alternatives,” said Mckenna.
“High speed internet is an absolute necessity for Maine communities in the 21st century, connecting our students to information and our businesses to opportunity,” Senator King said. “And in order to bridge the digital divide and expand broadband access across Maine, we need to work together across all levels of government and in partnership with the private sector to harness our combined resources and abilities. With this promising announcement, Redzone is demonstrating a commitment to our rural broadband infrastructure, to our local communities, and to the future of Maine.”
