Access to the latest broadband technology and top Internet speeds enhances quality of life and creates new opportunities for businesses to compete on a regional, national, or global level. To bring these benefits to Clearwater, Kan., SKT made a major investment in a fiber network to replace the existing infrastructure for telephone and cable modem Internet services in the area.

The 16-month project began in January 2017 and wrapped up this spring, giving Clearwater residents and businesses access to the same Internet speeds offered in some major U.S. cities.

SKT serves more than 20 communities in its seven-county service area, and Clearwater is the most densely populated town with more than 2,500 residents. The network of new fiber-optic cables gave nearly 1,000 homes and businesses access to more reliable Internet and phone service.

Providing Up To 40 Times Faster Internet

Fiber networks provide some of the fastest Internet available, and it is estimated that only about 25 percent of the U.S. has access to fiber Internet service. Fiber-optic cables transmit data over long, thin strands of pure glass about the diameter of a human hair. A single cable can contain anywhere from one to hundreds of individual fibers.

With SKT Fiber Internet, the company can deliver download speeds of up to 1 Gbps. To put that into perspective, 1 Gbps equals 1,000 Mbps. The previous cable modem system in Clearwater offered 6 Mbps to 25 Mbps. From top speed with a cable modem to top speed with fiber, Clearwater residents could potentially see 40 times faster speeds.

In a digital era, fiber Internet has the capacity to grow with the fast-paced changes in technology. Even if typical broadband speeds become a thousand times faster in the coming decades, a single existing fiber-optic connection can still support it.

Helping a Community Thrive

Internet access has become an essential part of daily life for most Americans, and it is vital to help rural communities grow. The benefits of fiber Internet go beyond a fast connection for lag-free gaming and high-definition streaming. This investment in infrastructure can have a significant impact on economic development for Clearwater – retaining and attracting families and businesses, increasing property values, and improving education opportunities both in schools and through online courses.

“Broadband is key to a vibrant economy. At a time when some rural communities are struggling, Clearwater is poised for continued growth with SKT Fiber Internet,” SKT President and CEO Kendall Mikesell said. “SKT has served the Clearwater community for nearly 70 years, and we’re committed to providing the best in broadband Internet solutions with friendly and knowledgeable customer service.”

Learn more about SKT Fiber Internet in Clearwater.

Pictured: An EPI Communication Consultants engineer is overseeing the placement of innerduct, which houses the new fiber optic cables.