Nex-Tech Announces Fiber Build in Oberlin

Lenora, KS – November 26, 2024 – Nex-Tech is excited to announce the upcoming construction of a state-of-the-art fiber Internet network in the town of Oberlin, Kansas. This significant infrastructure project is set to begin in April 2025, marking a major milestone in enhancing the digital connectivity for the residents and businesses of Oberlin.

Nex-Tech is currently completing fiber Internet construction in rural Decatur County as part of a 2023 Capital Project Fund (CPF) grant project. Nex-Tech has seen the need for fiber in Oberlin and has received tremendous community support, allowing them to make this investment. “Oberlin has been very supportive of Nex-Tech and has been requesting fiber services, and we are thrilled to finally make this project happen,” said Dustin Schlaefli, Director of Customer Engagement at Nex-Tech. “We are dedicated to providing top-tier services and supporting the growth of the communities we serve.”

Jimmy Todd, Nex-Tech CEO, and Terry Peterson, Director of Field Operations, announced the news at the Oberlin city council meeting on November 21. City Clerk, Megan Ketterl had this to say about the announcement, “The City of Oberlin is thrilled Nex-Tech is investing in advanced fiber connectivity for our community. This initiative is a game-changer for Oberlin. Nex-Tech’s fiber network will not only support our current residents but also attract a growing number of remote workers eager to experience all that Oberlin has to offer. We believe that with improved fiber connectivity, Oberlin can become a vibrant hub for remote workers and digital nomads seeking a unique blend of rural charm and modern conveniences. We are enthusiastic about collaborating with Nex-Tech to bring this vision to life and are confident that this enhancement will greatly benefit our community. Together, we are paving the way for a new era of connectivity in Oberlin, Kansas.”

Residents can expect to see preliminary work beginning in the next few weeks, as engineering contractors will begin measuring, marking, and planning the project. This initial work is crucial to ensure a smooth and efficient build process. Following the engineering will be the construction phase, in which the main line fiber and individual fiber lines to homes will be placed. This will be followed by splicing the fiber connections, and finally, in-home installations.

In addition to the fiber build, Nex-Tech is pleased to reveal plans for a Nex-Tech store opening in Oberlin in early 2025, solidifying its commitment to the community. The building at 217 N Penn Avenue has been owned by Nex-Tech for several years. The building is home to one of the newest murals in town. In preparation to serve the Oberlin community, Nex-Tech will make renovations and will open a retail space for residents to sign up for services and get support. Nex-Tech offers a wide range of services in addition to Internet including streaming TV, security and surveillance, home phone, managed IT services, and marketing solutions.

Oberlin residents who would like to pre-sign-up for Nex-Tech’s fiber services can easily do so by visiting: nex-tech.com/oberlin

Nex-Tech has a rich history of pioneering fiber broadband in Northwest Kansas. Starting in 1996, Nex-Tech became the first U.S. service provider to connect a rural community with fiber-to-the-home. This groundbreaking achievement set a new standard and inspired rural providers nationwide to pursue fiber connectivity. Over the years, Nex-Tech has continued to expand its fiber network, connecting homes, businesses, and institutions in previously underserved areas. Today, Nex-Tech remains committed to delivering robust fiber connectivity and advancing digital equity in rural communities