Construction Underway on $87M IMPACC Broadband Network to Bridge Michigan’s Digital Divide

DAVISON TWP. — Construction has officially commenced on the ambitious $87 million IMPACC Middle Mile Broadband Infrastructure Project, marking a major step forward in bringing high-speed internet access to underserved communities throughout Michigan.

Led by Peninsula Fiber Network (PFN) in partnership with 123NET, the project kicked off with a press conference on July 28 at the Best Western Davison Inn. Officials gathered to celebrate this long-anticipated infrastructure milestone with a ceremonial “fiber spool pull,” a symbolic nod to the transformative work already taking place on the ground.

Backed by a $61.2 million federal grant from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and a $26 million investment from PFN and 123NET, the IMPACC project aims to enhance the state’s broadband infrastructure, particularly in rural and economically challenged areas.

“This is more than a construction milestone—it’s the beginning of building the middle mile infrastructure that makes broader internet access possible,” said PFN General Manager Cory Heigl. “We’re proud to partner with 123NET, NTIA, and local communities to turn years of planning into real progress on the ground.”

The project’s Route 3 segment, which stretches 111 miles from Port Huron to Flint, began construction earlier this summer. It’s expected to take approximately 18 months to complete and will form the backbone for future last-mile service extensions. Once fully operational, Route 3 is expected to help connect over 2,500 homes and businesses in Genesee, Lapeer, Macomb, and St. Clair counties.

“Reliable, high-speed internet isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity for families, students, and businesses across Michigan,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist, emphasizing the broader economic and educational impacts of the project. “Projects like this help ensure every community can compete, grow, and thrive in a connected economy.”

Local and state leaders underscored the importance of expanding broadband infrastructure as a tool for both equity and economic development.

“Access to high-speed internet is no longer a luxury, it is a necessity,” said State Rep. David Martin (R-Davison), who joined the event. “Expanding broadband means better opportunities for our students, stronger support for our small businesses, and more access to essential services like healthcare and job training.”

Martin praised the public-private collaboration, calling it a model for future infrastructure projects in Michigan.

“Improving access to high-speed internet helps our economy, our workforce, our young people and more. It’s time we roll up our sleeves and get to work.”

A Statewide Strategy for Connectivity

The IMPACC project spans three primary routes, each designed to strengthen the state’s middle mile infrastructure—creating resiliency, expanding redundancy, and enabling last-mile internet service providers (ISPs) to reach more customers:

• Route 1: Underwater and on-land fiber from Benton Harbor to Chicago, continuing to Byron Center
• Route 2: A mix of underwater and land-based fiber from Gulliver to Beaver Island, then on to Charlevoix and Gaylord
• Route 3: 111-mile land-based fiber link from Port Huron to Flint

Once complete, these routes will allow PFN and 123NET to offer wholesale broadband access to ISPs statewide, significantly lowering the cost and improving availability of service for Michigan residents—particularly in areas where access has been inconsistent or nonexistent.

“We’re proud to be part of this project that will make a lasting impact for communities across Michigan,” said Chuck Irvin, Executive Vice President of 123NET. “We believe in building infrastructure that empowers people—whether that’s a student accessing online learning or a small business expanding into new markets.”

Long-Term Vision

The project represents a foundational investment in digital equity and economic resilience, supporting Michigan’s broader goals for workforce development, remote education, healthcare access, and smart infrastructure.

In addition to Route 3's ongoing construction, planning and permitting are already underway for Routes 1 and 2, ensuring continued momentum across all project segments.

As PFN and 123NET progress with implementation, the IMPACC project is expected to create jobs, stimulate private investment, and set the stage for a more connected and competitive Michigan.

For updates on the project and additional connectivity initiatives, visit:
📍 www.123.net
📍 www.pfnllc.net

Originally reported by The Flushing View.