TDS Telecommunications plans statewide upgrades in Maine

TDS Telecommunications will upgrade internet speeds across its entire Maine service footprint after electing to receive Enhanced Alternative Connect America Cost Model (E-ACAM) support. TDS has been doing business in Maine since 1971 and serves more than 30 communities in the state. The Federal Communications Commission’s E-ACAM program, which was enhanced to provide additional funding for rural broadband, requires TDS to provide at least 100 Mbps download speeds and 20 Mbps upload speeds to consumers who lack that service today. The Madison (WI)-based telecommunications company has been part of the A-CAM program since its inception in 2016. The E-ACAM program supports TDS’ ability to make long-term investments to improve rural broadband by providing predictable support while aligning network deployment requirements with the federal Broadband Equity Access & Deployment (BEAD) program. Included in the company’s range of fiber speed options is a low-cost product for qualifying Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) participants. TDS Connect includes high-speed internet at a price that is fully covered by the monthly ACP benefit.