Broadband ExpansionFebruary 9, 2022
Spectrum Launches Gigabit Broadband, Mobile, TV and Voice Services in Benzie and Manistee Counties
Network Buildout is Part of Spectrum’s $5 Billion, Multiyear Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF) Investment in Rural Broadband
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Spectrum Internet® with Starting Speeds of 200 Mbps Now Available to Over 300 Homes and Small Businesses
TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. — Spectrum today announced the launch of Spectrum Internet, Mobile, TV and Voice services to over 300 homes and small businesses in Benzie and Manistee Counties. Construction will continue throughout these counties with an expected expansion to an additional 600 homes and businesses through spring. Spectrum’s newly constructed fiber-optic network buildout in northern Michigan is part of the company’s approximately $5 billion investment in unserved rural communities, which includes $1.2 billion won in the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) RDOF auction. The company’s RDOF expansion will provide broadband access to approximately 1 million customer locations as estimated by the FCC across 24 states in the coming years.
Spectrum Internet Gig, with download speeds of 1 Gbps, is now available throughout the buildout area. Spectrum Internet offers starting speeds of 200 Mbps, with Spectrum Internet Ultra providing download speeds of 400 Mbps. For small and medium-sized businesses, Spectrum Business Internet offers download speeds of 200 Mbps, 600 Mbps and 1 Gbps. Local residents and business owners should visit spectrumruralexpansion.com to learn more about when their home or business may be able to receive Spectrum services.
“Through RDOF, Spectrum is making a multiyear investment to extend gigabit broadband networks to unserved communities across America,” said Thomas Yates, Vice President of Construction leading Spectrum’s Michigan and Indiana buildouts. “Our commitment is making it possible to deliver the high-value broadband, mobile, TV and voice services now available in Benzie and Manistee counties. We are providing superior connectivity to local residents and small businesses at highly competitive prices, backed by an organization committed to craftsmanship and service.”
Spectrum Internet Assist, the company’s low-cost broadband service for qualifying families and seniors, is also available, offering 30 Mbps speeds for just $17.99 per month. All Spectrum Internet plans have no data caps, modem fees or contracts and are eligible for Affordable Connectivity Program credits for qualifying households.
“Thanks to the partnership between Charter and the FCC, high-speed internet is on its way to thousands of homes and businesses over the next year in Benzie and Manistee counties that currently lack access to capabilities like telehealth, online school, and remote working,” said U.S. Rep. Jack Bergman. “The FCC’s Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF) exists to help providers like Charter reach the most unserved and underserved areas throughout Michigan’s First District, and I will continue to support this important program and historic investment.”
“It is common knowledge to those of us living in northern and rural Michigan, that access to high speed internet can be difficult to get,” said state Sen. Curt VanderWall. “I’m excited that Spectrum is making this investment. Having faster speeds, plus a reliable and fast internet connection for essential everyday tasks, from conducting business to education and entertainment, will make a huge impact in these rural areas.”
“It is great to hear that more rural homes in Benzie and Manistee Counties will have access to high speed internet and other services. This investment is much needed for our communities and one that I hope will continue for years to come," added state Rep. Jack O’Malley.
Ranked by U.S. News & World Report as the Best Internet Service Provider for Rural Areas in its 2021-22 ratings, Spectrum Internet also exceeded advertised download and upload speeds for all tiers measured — even during peak weeknight usage between 7 and 11 p.m. — according to the FCC’s most recent “Measuring Broadband America Fixed Broadband Report” issued in December 2021.
Spectrum Mobile™ is available exclusively to Spectrum Internet customers. Combining the fastest overall speeds* with the best devices and a choice of Unlimited or By the Gig data plans, Spectrum Mobile provides customers the highest-quality experience at great value, including access to nationwide 5G. Customers can bring their own phone or choose from among the latest mobile devices and accessories.
Spectrum TV® brings extensive programming lineups to the area, with more than 90 HD channels and access to over 60,000 On Demand movies and shows. Using the award-winning Spectrum TV App, viewers can stream content across a growing number of platforms, including iOS and Android phones and tablets, Xbox, Kindle Fire, Samsung Smart TVs, Apple TV 4K, Google Chromecast, Roku and PCs. Spectrum TV customers also have exclusive access to Spectrum Originals, a premier destination for premium original series, available on-demand and ad-free.
Home phone service through Spectrum Voice® provides unlimited calling in the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico and Mexico; up to 28 popular calling features, including Call Guard, which helps block unwanted robocalls; and no added phone taxes or fees.
* Fastest Overall Speeds claim based on Global Wireless Solutions’ combined cellular and WiFi speed test results in Spectrum service area where WiFi is available. Cellular speeds vary by location.
About Spectrum
Spectrum is a suite of advanced communications services offered by Charter Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ:CHTR), a leading broadband connectivity company and cable operator serving more than 32 million customers in 41 states. Over an advanced communications network, the company offers a full range of state-of-the-art residential and business services including Spectrum Internet®, TV, Mobile and Voice.
For small and medium-sized companies, Spectrum Business® delivers the same suite of broadband products and services coupled with special features and applications to enhance productivity, while for larger businesses and government entities, Spectrum Enterprise provides highly customized, fiber-based solutions. Spectrum Reach® delivers tailored advertising and production for the modern media landscape. The company also distributes award-winning news coverage, sports and high-quality original programming to its customers through Spectrum Networks and Spectrum Originals. More information about Charter can be found at corporate.charter.com.
Media Contact
Bill Morand
@CharterNewsroom