CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, IL — i3 Broadband, a neighborhood provider of fiber optic internet, announced it will start construction in multiple neighborhoods to continue its multi-year, multi-million dollar investment in extending the fiber network throughout Champaign-Urbana, Illinois. i3 Broadband offers ultra-high speed Internet, HD TV and voice services.
“We are extremely excited to provide residents and businesses of Champaign-Urbana with access to the latest fiber optic technology and services that typically are reserved for much larger communities,” said Grier Raclin, president and CEO of i3 Broadband. “Our gigabit service vastly surpasses other providers’ services. Whether you have one or many devices, i3 Broadband can serve all your needs and provide the convenience and enjoyment of a reliable and simply superior Internet experience.”
Urbana-Champaign Big Broadband (UC2B)
i3 Broadband is the new local commercial partner working with the Urbana-Champaign Big Broadband (UC2B) not-for-profit board to extend true fiber connectivity to homes and businesses. This network expansion extends the initial UC2B fiber backbone buildout in 2010-2013 that was supported by $26 million in federal and state grants, and in-kind contributions from the cities of Champaign and Urbana, and the University of Illinois.
i3 Broadband continues its active relationship with UC2B to plan neighborhood buildouts and support a community benefit fund to reduce technology adoption barriers for disadvantaged community groups.
“High speed internet is essential infrastructure for our community,” said Urbana Mayor Diane Marlin. “We are very pleased that i3 Broadband will expand installation of their network in Urbana this week and look forward to the day when all neighborhoods have the connectivity required to support today’s business and educational needs.”
