A Passion for Community Drives Broadband Forward in Holland, Michigan

Unlike many communities in Michigan, every resident in Holland is served by one of two incumbent internet service providers. However, available speeds, network quality, and provider options negatively impacted educational outcomes, work-from-home opportunities, and overall quality of life in the area, particularly during the pandemic. Today, Holland has taken a significant step forward by awarding a contract to develop and construct a publicly-owned open-access fiber network that will span across the entire city. Public fiber to every home in Holland by 2027 was furthered significantly by the dogged determination of an individual who sought to leave a lasting legacy of a united and well-connected community. This champion built upon the community’s history of promoting the common good while acknowledging and surmounting his own personal limitations. Pete Hofswell, Broadband Services Superintendent at the Holland Board of Public Works, has been a serious factor in getting Holland, Michigan, to commit to a publicly-owned, open-access, fiber network. By engaging with the community to understand the needs of residents, creating educational initiatives highlighting the advantages of dependable broadband, and prioritizing personal growth and leadership development, Pete’s efforts led to the successful approval of a millage, which funded the provision of public broadband for every household in the community.

[Dr. Pierrette Renee Dagg, Ph.D is a Benton Institute Digital Opportunity Fund Fellow, the Director of Technology Impact Research at Merit Network.]