The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe is launching a transformative broadband infrastructure project to bring fast, reliable internet access to our communities. Backed by an $18.7 million grant from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), this project will include a combination of fiber-optic lines and fixed wireless towers to serve households and businesses across the reservation.
The network will include fiber routes and strategically placed wireless towers capable of delivering 5G fixed wireless internet. These towers awill broadcast internet within a defined coverage area.
Throughout May 2025, LLBO Tribal and Economic Development staff will attend Local Indian Council (LIC) meetings to share plans, answer questions, and gather input on tower site locations. Community feedback is critical to ensuring this project reflects local priorities and needs.
Project Timeline:
- May 2025: Community outreach at LIC meetings
- Fall/Winter 2025: Environmental review & final tower placement
- Spring/Summer 2026: Construction begins
- Fall 2026: Project completion anticipated
We encourage community members to participate in the meetings and help shape the future of internet access across Leech Lake.
For questions or comments, please contact:
Sally Fineday, Tribal Planner
📧 [email protected]
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[…] Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe is launching a major broadband project, funded by an $18.7 million NTIA grant, to expand high-speed internet access across the […]