Allen County partners with Lakeland Internet to bring high-speed broadband to underserved communities
In an exciting move to strengthen broadband connectivity in underserved eastern and southern Allen County.
County commissioners have partnered with Lakeland Internet, a trusted local provider, to deliver state-of-the-art, high-speed internet access to residents and businesses through innovative fixed wireless technology.
On December 16, 2024, the Board of Commissioners approved county match funding of $1,204,216 for this transformative project, with Lakeland agreeing to contribute an estimated $7,380,000, depending on customer take rate. The combined total of $8,584,216 will cover the cost of deploying six commercial communication towers, bridging the digital divide in areas that have long faced challenges with limited infrastructure.
Lakeland will utilize existing vertical assets and install all-new hardware. Additionally, Lakeland will cover the cost of home installations and equipment for participating households, ensuring no upfront cost for residents.
The project is now officially underway, and Lakeland anticipates the new network will be fully operational by the end of June 2025. More information on pre-signups will be available for residents soon.
Tarana Fixed Wireless Technology
This project will implement Tarana’s Next Generation Fixed Wireless Access (NgFWA) technology, an industry-leading solution for speed and reliability that’s comparable to fiber internet, but at a fraction of the cost and deployment time. With its extended range and ability to perform well in rural and semi-rural environments, Tarana technology is perfectly suited for addressing connectivity gaps in Allen County.
“Tarana’s fixed wireless technology represents the future of broadband expansion in areas where traditional infrastructure has been difficult to deploy,” said Mark Byler, General Manager of Lakeland Internet. “We’re bringing unmatched speed, reliability, and cost efficiency to residents who have been waiting far too long for a solution.”
Each tower will have four access points capable of serving 256 customers each, allowing each tower to serve 1024 customers. Across six towers, that adds up to an estimated project impact of more than 6000 homes and businesses across Grabill, Woodburn, Townley, Hoagland, Yoder, and Aboite, many of which had no previous access to high-speed internet.
Customers can now look forward to speeds of 100 Mbps down/20 Mbps up everywhere within range of the towers, with peak speeds for customers closest to the towers of up to 500 Mbps down/100 Mbps up.
Transforming Communities and Improving Lives
Allen County residents will experience the benefits of this broadband expansion project across every aspect of life, including:
- Economic Development – Reliable internet attracts businesses and supports remote work opportunities.
- Education – Students will have the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly digital learning environment.
- Healthcare – Telehealth services become more accessible, improving health outcomes for patients.
- Public Safety – First responders benefit from enhanced communication and access to critical information.
Lakeland Internet’s deep roots in the Northeast Indiana community position the company as an ideal partner for this initiative. Known for delivering high-quality, customer-focused service, Lakeland Internet brings both technical expertise and a commitment to the region’s growth.
“We’re not just investing in technology, we’re investing in the people and businesses that make Allen County thrive,” said Byler.
In the month following this project’s approval, county commissioners requested Lakeland present plans for constructing additional infrastructure to service the remaining portions of Allen County. Lakeland Internet is developing build plans now and will present these to the Board of Commissioners in the coming months.
About Lakeland Internet
When you choose Lakeland Internet, you’re choosing lightning-fast speed and top-notch service for homes and businesses for whatever connects you to the world. Whether it’s basic browsing, streaming your favorite shows and movies, gaming, building your business, or going to school, Lakeland Internet is the tri-state area’s most reliable choice for the wireless and fiber solutions you need.
About Surack Enterprises
Founded by Chuck and Lisa Surack, the businesses of Surack Enterprises are a group of local companies that provide trusted services, products, and experiences to countless friends and families in and around Northeast Indiana & the Midwest. As we continue to grow, our mission stays the same — always do the right thing.