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Woodstock Communications outlines fiber build plans for Murray County and Lake Shetek islands
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Summary
Woodstock Communications told the Murray County Board it plans a Skandia FTTH project covering about 95 miles and 190 homes (construction spring 2026, service by end of 2026) and a 120-home Lake Shetek islands extension; buildout depends on environmental reviews and grant outcomes (BEAD, ReConnect).
SLAYTON, Minn. — Woodstock Communications presented fiber-network plans to the Murray County Board on Jan. 27, updating officials on two locally significant projects and potential future grant work.
Terry Nelson told the board the Skandia fiber-to-the-home project covers about 95 miles of fiber and passes roughly 190 homes; construction is anticipated to begin in spring 2026 with service activation expected by the end of 2026, pending environmental and archaeological reviews.
Nelson also described a Lake Shetek islands line-extension project serving approximately 120 homes (Edgewater Bay, Valhalla, Keeley Island, Lake Shetek Drive) that must be completed in 2026 and could leverage the Lake Shetek sewer project study to speed environmental review.
Nelson outlined potential future funding avenues: the BEAD program could add a small south-side build (about seven homes) if funded; ReConnect funding is uncertain and historically favors co-ops over private providers. "Woodstock's goal is to provide 100% fiber to home," Nelson said, but he said final buildout would depend on grant awards and feasibility.
The county asked Woodstock to keep officials updated as studies and grant decisions move forward.