TDS Telecom made it official that it is purchasing telecommunications assets of Sun Prairie Utilities (SPU) in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, enabling it to deepen the reach of its FTTH network to deliver 1 Gbps speeds and IPTV.
In February, TDS signed a nonbinding letter of intent (LOI) where it indicated its interest to acquire all of the telecommunications assets associated with SPU’s operation, transport, delivery and support of telecommunications services, including all customer agreements.
Jim Butman, chief operating officer at TDS, said in a release that the telco will be able to build upon the existing network and give more customers fiber-based broadband.
“The Utility built a strong fiber broadband network and we’re proud to take it to the next level,” Butman said. “In addition to expanding beyond the current SPU footprint, our goal is to provide the fastest, most reliable internet service to Sun Prairie residents and businesses.”
Sun Prairie, which is located 20 miles east of TDS’ headquarters in Madison, is a community that is attracting new residents and big name retailers. TDS noted that Cabela’s, Marcus Theatres and Woodman’s grocery store have all moved into the area and become anchors in a large, new development area.
TDS plans to immediately begin construction of the fiber network and to launch up to 1 Gbps internet, TDS TV and phone service for Sun Prairie residents. For businesses, TDS plans to provide up to 1 Gbps internet, dedicated fiber connections, and TDS managedIP, a hosted VoIP communications solution.
The growing retail presence could be a good target for TDS’ 1 Gbps services. After building out 1 Gbps FTTH service in multiple markets, TDS recently launched a similar service for its business customer base.
TDS started offering 1 Gbps internet service in various towns across six states: Georgia, Indiana, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Tennessee and Wisconsin. In all, TDS will offer the service across 27 towns throughout these states.