Spectrum is expanding service to nearly 800 homes and small businesses in Ottawa County.

The expansion will cover previously unserved or underserved areas in various townships, including Chester, Crockery, Grand Haven, Polkton and Wright.

The move is part of Spectrum’s multi-year rural construction initiative, which involves a $7 billion private investment. The project aims to add more than 100,000 miles of fiber-optic network infrastructure and deliver internet access to over 1.7 million new locations across the country.

“Spectrum is bringing gigabit broadband to unserved communities in Michigan and across America,” Christopher Spray, area vice president of field operations, wrote in a community release. “Our investment is providing residents and small businesses superior connectivity at highly competitive prices.”

The expansion has been welcomed by local officials.

“I am pleased to learn of Spectrum’s network expansion, which will bring much-needed service to thousands of Michigan families,” wrote U.S. Rep. John Moolenaar. “This construction is a welcome addition to the community and will provide greater economic opportunities for residents.”

State Sen. Roger Victory also expressed his support for the expansion.

“Thanks to help from Spectrum, we are bringing high-speed internet access to over 700 residents and businesses in Ottawa County,” he wrote. “In the digital age, it’s important for rural communities, like those in the 31st District, to have the ability to utilize the digital tools increasingly needed to succeed.”

More: Ottawa County has dreamed of an enormous public park for decades. It’s coming to fruition

State Rep. Luke Meerman emphasized the importance of reliable internet access in rural communities.

“Spectrum is expanding in the areas that need it most,” he wrote. “Expanded digital infrastructure is key for rural job providers and workers, and this expansion will benefit our communities.”

Local residents and business owners can visit spectrumruralexpansion.com to learn more about when their home or business may be able to receive services.

This story was created by reporter Nida Tazeen, ntazeen@gannett.com, with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.

This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: 800 homes, businesses in Ottawa to gain gigabit internet from Spectrum