Decatur Co. REMC begins Phase 2 of fiber internet construction

(GREENSBURG, Ind.) – Decatur County REMC is launching its second phase of the Powerstream Fiber high-speed internet.

The first phase of the project provided service to more than 1,400 locations and was completed one year ahead of its grant deadline. 

The Phase 2 expansion was made possible through $7M in federal funding from the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment Program (BEAD).

Decatur County REMC CEO Brett Abplanap said the federal award provides an incredible opportunity and delivering fiber internet efficiency is their responsibility. 

"Our focus now shifts to managing every aspect of the project – from staying on schedule and within budget to ensuring every mile of fiber is built with the same commitment to quality, reliability, and service our members have come to expect,” Abplanap said.

The second phase is expected to bring high-speed fiber internet to 2,800 additional homes and businesses. 

The federal BEAD program was created to bring faster internet service to rural areas, where installation isn’t possible by private investment alone. 

"Just as electricity transformed rural communities generations ago, fiber internet is creating new opportunities  for the future," Abplanalp said. "This investment is about much more than internet service. It's about  supporting economic growth, strengthening public safety, expanding educational opportunities, and improving  quality of life for the communities we proudly serve." 

Phase 2 construction is underway and Decatur County REMC will provide more updates here.