The final phase of a major broadband expansion project is now underway in northeast Michigan, marking another milestone in a multi-year effort to provide high-speed fiber internet to thousands of rural residents. After five years of construction, the Presque Isle Electric and Gas Cooperative (PIE&G) has connected approximately 7,500 customers to its fiber internet network and is now preparing to complete the last stage of its long-term infrastructure project.
Thousands of Customers Already Connected
PIE&G launched its four-phase broadband expansion project in 2021 with the goal of improving internet and phone services across rural communities in northeast Michigan. Since construction began, the cooperative has steadily expanded its fiber network, significantly increasing internet access for residents who previously had limited connectivity options.
According to PIE&G Chief Executive Officer Alan Berg, the cooperative has now completed most of the third phase and is moving into the fourth and final stage of construction.
Berg said the project has allowed the cooperative to provide high-quality internet service to communities that have historically struggled with reliable broadband access.
He added that the organization is proud to support residents in remote parts of Michigan with modern fiber internet technology.
Fiber Network Continues to Expand Across Northeast Michigan
The cooperative’s fiber network now stretches across several parts of northeast Michigan.
According to PIE&G, the service area currently reaches communities from Cheboygan in the north to Alpena in the south. The upcoming final construction phase will focus on expanding service into Montmorency County.
Once this final stage is completed, the cooperative expects the entire project to be finished within the next 12 to 19 months.
Broadband Expansion Designed for Rural Communities
The broadband project was created to address one of the biggest challenges facing many rural communities—limited access to reliable, high-speed internet.
Fiber internet offers significantly faster download and upload speeds than many traditional internet services, making it easier for residents to work remotely, attend online classes, operate businesses, access telehealth services, and stream digital content.
Officials say the project is intended to improve long-term connectivity throughout the cooperative’s electric service territory.
Cooperative Awaiting Federal BEAD Funding
While construction continues, PIE&G is also seeking financial support through the federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program.
The BEAD Program is a nationwide initiative designed to expand broadband infrastructure in underserved and unserved communities across the United States.
However, Berg noted that the timeline for receiving BEAD funding has changed multiple times because of revisions to the federal program.
He explained that the grant process has remained uncertain as federal officials continue updating program requirements.
Michigan Received Nearly $1.6 Billion for Broadband
Michigan High-Speed Internet Office Chief Connectivity Officer Eric Frederick said Michigan received approximately $1.6 billion through the BEAD Program.
According to Frederick, this represents the fourth-largest funding allocation awarded to any state or U.S. territory.
The funding is intended to support fiber internet construction projects that will connect homes and businesses lacking adequate broadband service.
Federal Rule Changes Delayed Grant Process
Although Michigan began accepting BEAD grant applications early last year, Frederick explained that implementation slowed after changes were made to the federal program.
Following a change in the federal administration, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) introduced several reforms that required states to revise their grant procedures.
As a result, Michigan has spent months updating its application process and ensuring it complies with the new federal guidelines.
Frederick said these revisions have delayed the distribution of grant funding but that progress is now being made.
Internet Providers Close to Receiving Funding
State officials say Michigan is approaching the point where broadband providers can officially receive grant awards.
Frederick explained that grant agreements are currently being finalized with internet service providers selected to participate in the program.
In total, 28 internet companies across Michigan have been chosen as subgrantees, although none have officially signed funding agreements yet.
State officials expect announcements regarding finalized grant recipients in the near future.
Construction Will Continue After Grants Are Awarded
Once grant agreements are signed, internet providers receiving BEAD funding will have up to four years to complete their broadband infrastructure projects.
Frederick noted that while some projects may take longer than others, the goal is to deploy high-speed internet as quickly as possible throughout underserved communities.
State officials say they are working closely with providers to accelerate construction wherever possible.
Final Construction Phase Focuses on Montmorency County
For PIE&G, attention is now turning toward Montmorency County, where crews will begin installing additional fiber infrastructure during the project’s final phase.
The cooperative expects this work to conclude within 12 to 19 months, completing the original broadband expansion plan first announced in 2021.
Once construction is finished, there are currently no official plans for additional expansion projects beyond the cooperative’s existing electric service territory.
Future Expansion Remains Possible
Although no new construction has been announced beyond the current project, Berg said the cooperative remains open to evaluating future opportunities.
He explained that PIE&G will continue assessing whether expanding service into additional areas makes sense for both the cooperative and surrounding communities.
For now, however, the organization’s primary focus remains fulfilling its original commitment to provide fiber internet throughout its existing electric footprint.
Project Marks Major Step for Rural Internet Access
As the final phase begins, the broadband expansion represents a significant investment in northeast Michigan’s digital infrastructure.
With thousands of customers already connected and additional communities scheduled to receive service over the coming months, the project is expected to improve internet access for rural residents while supporting education, healthcare, business development, and everyday communication.
Officials say completing the final phase will bring the cooperative’s multi-year broadband initiative to a successful conclusion while helping close the digital divide across northeast Michigan.
