What is in it for me? Why should I care about internet in my area?

Reliable, fast internet access can benefit all Winchester township residents. Internet access is critical in today's world and can offer residents the following:

• Improve property values and home sales because of access to the worldwide web

• Interface with your health care provider through telehealth appointments

• Communicate with family and friends using voice, data, and video

• Improved business opportunities that require video meetings or moving large amounts of data

• Online shopping and banking

• Live streaming movies and gaming

• Remote learning for all ages; learn anything through videos, online classes, and research

• Work remotely from the comforts of your home

• Conduct e-commerce

• Cloud data computing and storage

• Use a smart bike or other exercise equipment in a virtual gym

• Run smart devices for your home such as thermostat; refrigerator; security system/cameras; open doors, turn on lights; start vacuum, etc.

• Attend online worship ceremonies

• Nearly anything else you can imagine

I already have internet access. Why do I need broadband?

While internet is available to many Winchester residents, many residences have no internet access by any method. Of the approximately 800 living units in Winchester township, about half have less that 10Mbs (below minimum federal standard to be considered broadband) download speed. Mobile access and satellite access are often spotty in the northwoods and can be impaired by trees blocking signals. In addition, the existing infrasturcture provided over copper lines is considered obsolete and will be in “maintenance mode” only by our current internet service provider (Centurylink/Lumen).

What is fiber to the home (FTTH)?

Fiber optic pulses light through strands of fiber made of glass or plastic over long distances. It would be installed throughout Winchester Township to allow all residents and businesses access to that network. Based upon the final contract with Internet Service Provider(s), fiber may be brought directly to the primary dwelling as part of the project allowing property owners a choice of more than one service level option, up to 1Gbs service which is 40x faster than the current 25Mbs guaranteed service.

Who pays for the broadband infrastructure?

Multiple fundings sources are available to pay for broadband internet in our township which include:

• Federal funding through the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF)

• State funding through Public Service Commission (PSC) grants and American Rescue Plan (ARP) is a federal program administered by the PSC

• Municipal loans or bond issues

• Internet Service Provider (ISP) funds for infrastructure design and installation

• Local contribution

• Funding from local organizations or individuals

• Other federal and state sources are also under investigation