Surf Internet announced plans to convert three Route 1 communities in Illinois from fixed wireless to fiber, forming a new corridor that connects Momence, Grant Park, and Beecher. The upgrade will bring Surf’s multi-gig fiber internet to residential and business users for the first time. The Route 1 corridor fiber project will also connect to Surf’s broader network in the northwestern Indiana region, expanding Surf’s footprint beyond Illinois and aligning with state programs and BEAD funding that could accelerate broadband deployment. The company cites a total private investment of $5.25 million for the three communities, with more than 4,200 locations expected to gain access to services offering 2-gigabit-per-second and other multi-gig fiber options. Momence Mayor Chuck Steele noted that fiber infrastructure helps smaller communities stay competitive and attract opportunities, while construction plans for Grant Park and Beecher are underway.