HUDSON OAKS, Texas – Nextlink Internet announces that it is deploying rural services ahead of schedule, and with faster speed plans in its Connect America Fund Phase 2 (CAF II) deployments.
Nextlink is receiving $281 million from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to deploy 100/20 Mbps broadband to more than 100,000 locations across six states under the FCC’s CAF II program. While it is required to reach 40% completion by December 31, 2022, Nextlink has already surpassed 50% completion with no signs of slowing down. Expansion began in early 2019, and with Nextlink’s rapid speed of deployment, the company not only is well ahead of the FCC’s program milestones, but also expects to complete 100% of deployment requirements far ahead of the 2025 deadline.
Bill Baker, Founder and CEO of Nextlink Internet, said: “Nextlink is laser-focused on bringing high-speed broadband to small towns and rural areas across America’s heartland. Through the FCC’s Connect America Fund program, we’ve been able to quickly expand our broadband availability to reach those areas. We are dedicated to driving economic growth in rural America, enriching communities through enhanced connectivity.”
Nextlink is also exceeding the program’s requirements for consumer data speeds under the program. The company is deploying gigabit fiber, and the majority of its current wireless deployments are offering download speeds up to 500 Mbps/100 Mbps, utilizing the company’s extensive CBRS spectrum holdings.
“When we were first authorized for CAF II, our technology was questioned for being able to deliver 100/20 Mbps broadband,” said Baker. “So, we are proud to be going significantly above and beyond that for rural consumers. We are deploying advanced wireless and fiber technology to exceed program requirements whenever we can. We are especially looking forward to 2023 when we expect to begin delivering widespread wireless download speeds of one gigabit in new deployments.”