The Vermont Community Broadband Board (VCBB) and the Otter Creek Communications Union District (OCCUD) announced that their universal service broadband plan has been completed ahead of schedule and under budget. The project delivers fiber to 3,626 addresses across 18 Rutland-area towns.
The fiber network reached 3,626 addresses, including 1,278 households that previously had no internet access, through a partnership with Consolidated Communications’ Fidium service and an agreement with GoNetspeed.
Officials say the project saved nearly $3 million—specifically $2.99 million—and will be redirected to statewide broadband affordability initiatives, including the Affordable Long Drop Program that helps cover costly long or nonstandard installations.
VCBB Executive Director Christine Hallquist praised the achievement, calling it a powerful example of local district leadership. “Hundreds of volunteers across our state have stepped up and worked tirelessly, and now people in the OCCUD towns have access to reliable broadband, and the rest of the state benefits from the efficiency and savings this work produced,” Hallquist said.
The OCCUD serves 18 member towns in Rutland County: Benson, Brandon, Castleton, Chittenden, Fair Haven, Goshen, Hubbardton, Mendon, Pawlet, Pittsford, Poultney, Rutland City, Rutland Town, Shrewsbury, Sudbury, Wells, West Haven, and West Rutland.
