08/04/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/04/2026 13:39
MERRILL, Wis. - Spectrum, the #1 rural internet provider in the nation*, today announced the expansion of its fiber broadband network to bring Spectrum Internet, Mobile, TV and Voice services to more than 3,500 homes and businesses in previously unserved or underserved areas of Lincoln County, Wisconsin, including in the townships of Merrill, Pine River, Schley, Scott, Somo, and Tomahawk.
Spectrum's multi-year rural construction initiative is driven by more than $7 billion in private investment from Spectrum and will ultimately add an additional 100,000+ miles of fiber network infrastructure and deliver symmetrical and multi-gigabit speeds to more than 1.7 million new locations across the country.
"Spectrum is bringing gigabit broadband to unserved communities in Wisconsin and across America," said Matt Brown, Spectrum's Area Vice President of Field Operations in Wisconsin. "Our investment is providing residents and small businesses superior connectivity at highly competitive prices, backed by a team of skilled local technicians and 100% U.S.-based customer service."
Local residents and business owners should visit spectrumruralexpansion.com to learn more about when their home or business may be able to receive Spectrum services.
"For many of my constituents, reliable connectivity is a game-changer, expanding opportunities in education, healthcare, and the workforce," said State Senator Mary Felzkowski (R-Tomahawk). "During these dark winter months, something as simple as a video call with loved ones can turn someone's entire day around. This isn't just about making the Northwoods an even more attractive place to raise a family or retire, it's about enriching everyday life."
Spectrum Internet delivers speeds up to 1 Gbps and Advanced WiFi for residential and business customers, featuring starting speeds of 500 Mbps, with no modem fees, data caps or contracts. The company has also begun a network evolution that will provide gigabit upstream speeds and multiple gigabit download speeds across its entire 41-state service area.
Spectrum Internet exceeded advertised download and upload speeds for all tiers measured - even during peak weeknight usage between 7 and 11 p.m. - according to the FCC's most recent "Measuring Broadband America Fixed Broadband Report."
"Reliable, high-speed Internet is an asset to businesses across rural Lincoln County," said Jill Gaeu, co-owner of Rusty Moon Acres. "We now have speeds that rival businesses in the largest cities as we promote through social media and offer WiFi services to families and guests at our wedding venue."
On Tuesday, Spectrum also announced two $1,000 donations to Bridge Street Mission and the Merrill Food Pantry. The donations represent Spectrum's commitment to address pressing needs in the more than 1,000 communities it serves across Wisconsin.
Along with multiple broadband options, Spectrum Internet customers can now bundle their service with Spectrum Mobile for greater savings and convenience. Spectrum Mobile is the nation's fastest-growing mobile provider** with Unlimited lines starting at just $30 a month. Bundling these services together provides enhanced value and gives customers seamless connectivity inside and outside the home with the fastest speeds. Spectrum offers a savings calculator to show how much can be saved by switching to Spectrum.
Spectrum TV plans offer additional ways for customers to save money. Spectrum TV plans provide access to the most popular streaming apps - a retail value of up to $125 per month - at no additional cost. Streaming apps include the Disney+, Hulu Bundle, ESPN Unlimited, HBO Max Basic With Ads, Paramount+ Essential, Peacock Premium with Ads, AMC+ with Ads, ViX Premium With Ads, Tennis Channel, FOX One and Discovery+ with Ads.
* Based on December 2022 FCC Broadband Data Collection locations.
** Based on 1Q 2024 subscriber data among top 3 carriers.
Spectrum is a suite of advanced communications services offered by Charter Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ:CHTR), a leading broadband connectivity company available to nearly 59 million homes and small to large businesses across 41 states. Founded in 1993, Charter has evolved from providing cable TV to streaming, and from high-speed Internet to a converged broadband, WiFi and mobile experience. Over the Spectrum Fiber Broadband Network and supported by our 100% U.S.-based employees, the Company offers Seamless Connectivity and Entertainment with Spectrum Internet®, Mobile, TV and Voice products.
More information can be found at corporate.charter.com.
Chris Caporale, [email protected]