Port moves forward on fiber internet project

COLFAX — The Port of Whitman Commissioners approved a fiber build contract award to move forward with bringing high-speed fiber internet to Port of Whitman Business Air Center.

The project is slated for completion by September and will bring high-speed fiber internet to the businesses and tenants of the Business Air Center.

During the Port of Whitman Commissioners regular meeting on Monday, June 3, the bid went to the lowest bidder, Summit Utility Contractors LLC for approximately $78,500.

Fiber will be constructed as Fiber-to-the-Premises, which means it will run directly to the tenant’s premises.

“Broadband is one of the essential components of economic growth,” said Executive Director Kara Riebold. “This fiber-to-the-premises project will ensure the businesses and people of Port of Whitman Business Air Center have the high-speed internet they need to remain competitive in the marketplace.”

The project will serve 19 locations including businesses such as Airport RV and Mini Storage, Cochran Partnership, Ensley Farms, Fender Air Service, Hennigar Trucking, Joseph’s Grainery, Plug Power and TLC Flying.