Extending broadband internet services to unserved areas of Wood County is underway thanks to a $2.5 million project that Wood County commissioners funded from the county’s share of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) for COVID relief.

Peoples in Quitman was awarded the project and is preparing to begin the first phase to serve a neighborhood in the Lake Holbrook area.

Residents should begin seeing utility locator flags in the area soon.

In all about 600 Wood County residences are expected to be served by the projects.

Fiber upgrades are planned in the Lake Lydia, Cartwright and Masters Hill areas within the Peoples’ service area, and also in West Fork Estates outside the co-op’s service area.

In addition, broadband services will be extended to Heroes Ranch, a non-profit near Quitman that provides accessible outdoor adventures to injured, ailing, wounded or disabled heroes and their families.

“These projects mark a significant step toward bridging the digital divide in Wood County and ensuring that all residents have access to reliable, high-speed internet,” according to a Peoples news release.

The projects are expected to be completed sometime next summer.