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The town of Easton in Aroostook County, Maine, has successfully expanded broadband internet access to all of its approximately 1,300 residents. The process took about 16 months, with the installation of utility poles being a major component.

The new broadband infrastructure now provides Easton residents with various services such as telehealth, which is particularly beneficial for senior citizens who have difficulty attending doctor appointments. It also enables connections to schools, social interaction for youths, and access to remote work opportunities for families and professionals who have moved into the town.

The expansion was made possible through a combination of funding sources and collaboration with an existing internet service provider that already had a presence in Easton. In total, approximately 128 households in the town now have access to broadband internet, thanks to the efforts of Spectrum, a subsidiary of Charter Communications, and its contractors.

The project cost a total of around 7,000, with 0,000 coming from the American Rescue Plan Act via the Aroostook County Commissioners, 5,000 from Spectrum, and the remainder from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. This successful broadband expansion initiative could potentially serve as a model for other rural towns in Maine.

Previously, many rural towns like Easton had limited or unreliable internet service. The completion of this expansion has brought Easton into the 21st century and has provided households with internet access for the first time.

Closing existing coverage gaps in internet service was a key goal of the project. Major roadways and rural properties east of 1A were among the areas that now have access to broadband. The installation involved the use of new poles and overhead lines.

The improved broadband connectivity not only benefits current residents but also has the potential to attract more people to move to Easton. The town decided not to own the broadband infrastructure, leaving the maintenance responsibilities to Spectrum, as the town’s public works department lacks the necessary expertise.

Overall, the expansion of broadband internet access in Easton has been a significant accomplishment for the town and has fulfilled the promise to provide residents with reliable and high-speed internet connectivity.

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