Red River Communications says USDA ReConnect grant will bring fiber to ~200 Clay County locations
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Summary
Red River Communications told the Clay County Board it received a USDA ReConnect grant to extend fiber to roughly 200 locations in northern Clay County; company representatives said no county match is required and construction is expected to begin in 2026 with completion possible in 2027.
Representatives from Red River Communications updated the Clay County Board that the company has been awarded a USDA ReConnect federal grant to extend fiber‑optic broadband to an area of northern Clay County that company staff estimated to include about 200 locations. "Red River Communications has been rewarded a USDA ReConnect grant," Tom (Red River Communications) told the board.
Tom and Carrie said the federal grant requires no county financial obligation; they noted an earlier state border‑to‑border grant application was unsuccessful. The presenters cautioned that federal grant administration includes significant compliance steps and anticipated construction during the 2026 season, with splicing and customer hookups extending into 2027 at best case.
Commissioners asked about timeline, the implications of missing state funding and how outreach and engineering work already conducted will affect the schedule. Tom thanked County Administrator Steve Larson for letters of support and said Red River will coordinate with county staff.
Commissioners highlighted the project’s potential benefits for education and economic development in areas north of Holly and rural Comstock/Sabin, and noted that some state broadband programs are expected to sunset, increasing the importance of federal and private investment.
No formal county action or appropriation was requested at the meeting; the presentation served as an informational update and the company said it will keep the county apprised of project milestones.