LAKE VILLAGE, Ind. (July 25, 2024) – Surf Internet® and the Newton County Economic Development Commission (EDC) celebrated the completion of a significant phase in their ongoing mission to provide high-speed, fiber-optic internet throughout Newton County, Ind. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on July 17 at the Lake Village Community Center to mark this milestone, commemorating 90 percent coverage of the county.
The partnership, which began with a $4 million investment by Newton County in September 2023, matched by $6.6 million from Surf Internet, has delivered transformational fiber-optic internet technology to nearly 4,000 unserved or underserved homes in the county. Other internet service providers, including Northwestern Indiana Telephone Co. (NITCO) and Vertical Horizon Networks, are also helping to cover an additional 1,500 homes throughout different parts of the county.
On July 17, representatives from Surf Internet and the Newton County EDC gathered with community members for a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate high-speed, fiber-optic internet coverage in Newton County.
“Newton County is a shining example of what can be achieved with collaboration among elected officials, government bodies, economic development corporations, and service providers,” said Gene Crusie, CEO of Surf Internet. “The progress we’ve seen here demonstrates that when these groups align their efforts with a shared vision, transformative achievements are not just possible, but inevitable.”
The most recent areas to wrap up construction of Surf’s fiber-optic network include Lake, Lincoln, McClellan, and northern Beaver townships. Residents in these areas can confirm availability for their address and sign up for service at https://www.surfinternet.com. Service packages start at just $25 a month, featuring multi-gig speed options with unrivaled network reliability. Unique to Surf, the “Price-Lock for Life” guarantee ensures that the initial price customers pay for their chosen speed and service level remains unchanged for the duration of their plan, with no annual increases or hidden fees. Additionally, Surf simplifies access by offering free installation and requiring no contractual commitment. For added convenience and personalized service, customer support is provided out of Surf’s La Porte, Ind., call center.
During remarks made at the ribbon cutting event, Newton County Economic Development Director Tim Myers said, “Today’s milestone is a testament to the power of partnership and forward-thinking investment in our county. I can’t thank the NCEDC Board, the Newton County Board of Commissioners, the Newton County Council, the entire team at Surf Internet, and all others who were involved enough. This collaboration not only enhances our connectivity but also lays a foundation for economic growth and improved quality of life across Newton County. We look forward to reaching complete coverage across the county so that every resident and business can benefit from these critical technological advancements.”
Surf Internet will continue its commitment to expansion with planned construction projects in Kentland and Goodland later this year. These projects, funded by private investments from Surf, will extend high-speed internet access to even more homes in the county. Construction updates are available on the company’s website at https://construction.surfinternet.com/.
The goal is to ultimately achieve 100 percent coverage of Newton County. This will be accomplished through a mix of private Surf Internet investment, expansion and service offered by other providers, the Indiana Connectivity Program offered by the Office of Community & Rural Affairs, as well as funding opportunities through the federal Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program.
About Surf Internet
Surf Internet is an innovative fiber-optic internet company that serves as the essential gateway to connectivity across the Great Lakes region of Michigan, Indiana, and Illinois. The company is building a bridge to the wide-open future by delivering high-speed, reliable internet to homes and businesses in underserved, rural communities. Surf’s 250-plus-person team is local, giving them an edge when it comes to customer care and advocacy for the region. Headquartered in Elkhart, Ind., Surf also has offices in La Porte, Ind., Byron Center and Fowlerville, Mich., and Coal City, Naperville, and Rock Falls, Ill. Learn more at https://surfinternet.com.
