Harmony Telephone Company’s Reconnect II – Cresco, IA

Challenge

Harmony Telephone Company’s Reconnect II is a fiber-to-the-home project that brings fiber optics to rural and underserved areas of northeast Iowa. The project covers around 260 route miles with a reach of approximately 530 end-user locations throughout the project area in Howard County, Iowa.

Solution

Harmony Telephone Company was awarded a USDA RUS (Rural Utility Services) Reconnect II Grant/Loan focused on constructing a project that brings high-speed broadband services to rural areas. CNE worked with Harmony Telephone Company to design the project and create a fiber ring around the area to allow for full redundancy of the route. When completed, the system will offer up to 1 GB of symmetrical service allowing users complete access to voice, video, and other broadband fiber services. 

Outcome

The application process began in 2020 with construction starting in the summer of 2022. Mainline construction will continue through 2023 along with customer turnups. The project will be completed in 2024. 

CNE used Survey123 during the door-knocking process to gather vital client and property information. This included locating utilities, making drop sites, and using maps to make property notes. This information was also used and stored in a digital dashboard that Harmony Telephone Company and anyone with access could check for real-time construction updates and client and property information.

CNE provided several services for the project including application guidance, design, permitting, staking, construction supervision, closeouts, and final inspections.

When complete, the project will provide fast and reliable broadband services to Harmony Telephone customers throughout Howard County, Iowa.

Our Commitment to Connectivity

Headquartered in North Dakota and with a long history in the state, CNE knows a thing or two about the importance of bringing broadband connectivity to rural America. Nothing brings our team more joy than connecting students, workers, families, and businesses with the tools they need to stay competitive. We were thrilled to be given the chance to bring the same level of passion and excellence to Iowa alongside Harmony Telephone Company.