TDS Telecom begins construction of all-fiber internet network in Fort Atkinson

TDS Telecommunications LLC (TDS®) is continuing its Wisconsin expansion in Fort Atkinson, where it will invest millions of dollars into an all-fiber, high-speed internet network to serve local residents and businesses.

Construction began this week. When completed, the network will deliver residential fiber internet speeds up to 2Gig – fast enough to download a typical two-hour, 4K movie in less than a minute. Only 43 percent of U.S. households have access to fiber, according to a Fiber Broadband Association report – putting Fort Atkinson residents in a select group with such access.

“The City of Fort Atkinson has been making efforts at installing public infrastructure to support fiber internet for the last several years. We welcome TDS to the community to provide additional access and options for high-speed internet to our residents and businesses,” said Fort Atkinson City Manager Rebecca Houseman LeMire.

“Fast, reliable internet is more important than ever. With this major private investment, we will deliver better connections for Fort Atkinson residents and businesses,” said Drew Petersen, TDS Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs.

The network will also give Fort Atkinson residents a new choice for TV providers as well as a variety of phone options. TDS’ TV product, TDS TV®+, offers local and national networks, integration with popular streaming services, the ability to start shows over, and cloud DVR. Phone packages and service bundles will be available.

The network will become available neighborhood by neighborhood as construction is completed. Residents will be notified in several ways before construction starts in their neighborhood, including signage and by postcard, letter, and door hanger. Contractors will work to minimize disruptions to neighborhoods and restore any areas impacted by the burying of fiber-optic cable.

With strong local businesses and attractions like the Fireside Dinner Theatre, Fort Farmers Market, Glacial River Bike Trail, and much more, Fort Atkinson is a perfect fit for TDS and its community-minded values.

Fort Atkinson joins a growing list of Wisconsin communities in which TDS has begun construction or announced plans to expand. With the September announcement of projects in 18 communities across Wisconsin, TDS is building fiber networks in virtually every corner of the state.

“Since TDS was founded in Madison 53 years ago, we have become a national leader in fiber-optic construction. TDS builds the infrastructure of the future – enabling economic development, business growth, and better connections for school, work, and entertainment,” Petersen said. “We are excited to come to Fort Atkinson and look forward to being part of the community for years to come.”