Work is underway around southwest Michigan to expand broadband internet to those who aren’t currently served.
Midwest Energy and Communications is rolling out new service to thousands of properties in the next couple of years thanks to a state grant and local support. The company’s Amy Pales tells us MEC has been laying fiber in rural areas east of Benton Harbor, around Oronoko Township, and in pockets of Cass County for the last couple of years.
“We do have some stuff that’s also going to start construction north of Benton Harper in 2025, and we also have up around South Haven a couple of other areas that are complete,” Pales said. “We have one that’s right east of South Haven that is under construction and we expect the installation to start happening next quarter.”
Slated for this year will be work around Bertrand Township, Galien, and Eau Claire. Pales says residents will notice MEC trucks with huge spools on them, and how long installation takes depends on the area. Once new broadband lines have been laid, those in the area will be notified.
Pales says with MEC being based in Cass County, the company is aware of the need for service in many places.
“Our people live here, so they too were experiencing what it’s like to not have access to high-speed broadband, so we really understand what that experience is like, and that’s why we’re so dedicated to serving people.”
It will cost a resident $100 to sign up for broadband, and packages start at $65 per month.
Pales says MEC received a state grant of $25 million, $12 million was chipped in by county and township governments, and the company is investing $15 million of its own funds in the project. All work will be done by 2026.
You can see where and when the company will install broadband with a map at its website.
