County Board formally supports broadband grant application
If awarded, BEAD grant could provide high-speed internet access to approximately 5,400 addresses
WEST OLIVE — Understanding the pivotal role high-speed internet plays in the lives of its citizens and business now and into the future, the Board of Commissioners on Tuesday, March 25, formally backed 123NET and Ottawa County's joint application for the State of Michigan’s Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) grant.
"Whether it's for business, education, or telehealth, broadband internet service is an absolute necessity for modern life," said Ottawa County Board of Commissioners Chair John Teeples. "It's our duty to assist in leveraging funding and pursue any and all avenues to help residents and businesses obtain the access they need."
 A follow-up grant opportunity to Ottawa County’s previously awarded ROBIN grant, obtaining BEAD funding would help further the County’s fiber infrastructure expansion project and could potentially bring high-speed connectivity to as many as 5,400 additional addresses to the nearly 6,000 covered by ROBIN. [Image courtesy 123NET]
A follow-up grant opportunity to Ottawa County’s previously awarded ROBIN grant, BEAD funding would help further the County’s fiber infrastructure expansion project and could potentially bring high-speed connectivity to as many as 5,400 additional addresses to the nearly 6,000 covered by ROBIN. Total homes served and miles of fiber installed are subject to change based on grant awards and final contracts.
Like with the ROBIN grant awarded in 2024, matching funds will help maximize the investment from the state. With Ottawa County planning to contribute the $3.5 million in Board Initiative Funds previously obligated for broadband expansion paired with 123NET’s planned $3.5 million investment, the project would receive as much as $16 million in BEAD grant funds. This $23 million total investment would be far-reaching, facilitating greater access to online resources, foster economic growth, expand educational opportunities, enhance access to health care, and improve safety.
"These matching funds are huge - this could bring 150 to 200 additional miles of fiber, getting us that much closer to universal availability within our County's borders," said Department of Strategic Impact Director Paul Sachs.
Garnering official support from the Board of Commissioners isn't the only way 123NET and the County strengthened the BEAD application. Letters of support were received from local government units, chambers of commerce, Ottawa County public libraries, the Sheriff's Department, Grand Valley State University, the Ottawa Area Intermediate School District, as well as other area public schools.
"Whether it's for business, education, or telehealth, broadband internet service is an absolute necessity for modern life."
Ottawa County Board of Commissioners Chair John Teeples
"Having a broad pool of support for the application demonstrates how absolutely vital expanded connectivity is to nearly all facets of County life," said Sachs.
Though an award for expanded fiber would move the County closer to comprehensive coverage, wired service may not be feasible everywhere. Fixed wireless and satellite options are still in consideration since a multi-technological approach may be needed to provide ubiquitous accessibility. The outcome of the BEAD grant award will determine the next steps needed for the ultimate goal of comprehensive coverage.
Project Timeline
Broadband partner 123NET will submit applications to serve Ottawa County by April 9, 2025. Applications for BEAD will then be thoroughly reviewed by the state throughout the summer and fall with the potential for a reduction in grant awards or eligible locations. More details will be forthcoming.
If funds are awarded, DSI staff, representatives from 123NET, and local officials will evaluate the award to determine the scope and final details of the project.
ROBIN Funding Update
The County and 123NET are moving to get the 250 miles of ROBIN-funded fiber installed in crucial areas throughout the county.
ROBIN will improve access for nearly 6,000 residents. Approximately $9 million in state funds, paired with $4 million in matching funds from the County and $1.9 million from 123NET, has been allocated to build the fiber.
The installed network will be both open access and carrier-neutral, meaning other network providers can access it to sell their services; residents and businesses can choose their preferred provider.
123NET is finalizing detailed engineering plans, which will then be reviewed for right-of-way access by the Ottawa County Road Commission. Once fully reviewed and permitted, 123NET expects to start installing fiber in the summer of 2025, with completion of the ROBIN-funded portion of the project in early 2026.
About the Countywide Broadband Project
Ottawa County remains dedicated to advancing digital access countywide and fostering more connected communities. Through strategic partnerships, and community-driven initiatives, the County is committed to empowering all residents to thrive in the digital age. For more information about the project, visit www.miottawa.org/broadband. For updates on the current fiber construction efforts, visit www.123.net/Ottawa-County and sign up for 123NET’s email list.
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