Governor Greg Gianforte celebrated the expansion of TDS Telecoms’ (TDS) network across Montana at its new facility in Butte.
“We’re creating an environment where businesses like TDS can thrive, supported by Montanans’ unparalleled work ethic and an unmatched quality of life,” Gov. Gianforte said. “TDS’ investment underscores the importance of expanding broadband access to all Montanans in order to increase access to healthcare, education, and career opportunities and to create more good-paying jobs.”
The $21 million investment in Butte represents one component of TDS’ larger $160 million investment in Montana. In addition to Butte, TDS is building fiber networks in Billings, Great Falls, Helena, and Missoula.
Constructing more than 1,000 miles of fiber broadband across Montana, TDS employs more than 100 Montanans and is expected to hire dozens more.
The new warehouse and office space will house the latest in technology that will help facilitate TDS’ all-fiber network, which is bringing internet, TV products, and phone services.
The TDS fiber network under construction will serve more than 15,000 homes and businesses in Butte in addition to the nearly 2,000 customers across the state.
“Our new TDS facility in Butte is where the future begins. In the coming months as we build out our network, we will continue to lay down roots in Montana, add jobs, and work as hard as we can to deliver the quality broadband services this state deserves,” TDS President and CEO Jim Butman said.
Expanding access to reliable broadband and recruiting job-creating businesses to Montana to create greater opportunities for Montanans are central elements of Governor Gianforte’s Montana Comeback Plan.
Recently, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) approved Montana’s digital opportunity plan, which allows the state to compete for new federal funding to continue broadband expansion. With the plan approved, Montana is now eligible to apply for nearly $7 million in federal dollars to execute it.
Press release provided by Governor’s office
