The proposed action is needed to provide high speed, broadband internet to communities in Delta, Chippewa, and Mackinac counties through the Mobile Now Act. Rural communities in these locations are underserved.
Location
four separate project areas: Forest Rd 2231 (Sturgeon River to Rapid River) and adjacent; Brevoort Lake Communities; Pontchartrain Shores and adjacent communities; Forest Rd 3136, Teets Rd and adjacen
Project timeline
1
Scoping Start
06/30/2025
2
Decision
08/2025 (Estimated)
3
Implementation
08/2025 (Estimated)
NEPA / regulatory detail
| Categorical Exclusion | 32.2 (2), 36 Cfr 220.6(E)(2) |
| Special Authority | Not Applicable / Other |
| Notice and Comment Regulation | Not Subject to Regulations |
| Project Activity | Special Use Authorizations |
| Merit Fiber Optic Amendment 5 | Decision Signed Date: 08/18/2025 |
| Forests | Hiawatha National Forest |
| Districts | Rapid River Ranger District; Manistique Ranger District; Sault Ste. Marie Ranger District; St. Ignace Ranger District |
| Legal Land Description | Not Applicable |