In partnership with the community of Swan’s Island, Maine, TDS Telecommunications LLC announced that it has received a new grant of nearly $1.7 million to upgrade fiber-optic internet services on the island.

The Maine Connectivity Authority (MCA) announced the grant as part of its "Connect the Ready" program, which distributed a total of $34 million for broadband projects across the state.

The TDS project, which covers all of Swan’s Island, will bring fiber internet to the community and upgrade customers’ speeds to up to 1Gig.

Planning work has begun and fiber deployment will begin later this year. The grant funding is supplemented by funds from TDS and local jurisdictions.

The Swan’s Island project is just one component of TDS’ work to expand fiber communication services to a number of municipalities in Maine.

TDS has served the state since 1971. In addition to private investment, the operator notes it is leveraging Alternative Connect America funds to expand and improve broadband service to customers in Maine.

Andrew Petersen, TDS SVP of Corporate Affairs, commented:

“We are pleased to improve a crucial connection point for Swan’s Island. This project will result in better and more reliable connections for those who live and work on the island. We thank the Maine Connectivity Authority for the award and its work to improve broadband access for Maine residents.”