HERREID, S.D. (WNAX) – Extending broadband internet service into rural areas is a critical, but expensive project.

Valley Telecommunications, based in Herreid, is expanding their fiber optic network into rural areas of Moody, Brookings, and Kingsbury Counties.

Valley Tel Manager Jeff Symens says they needed some financial help to expand into those rural areas.

Symens says the grants they have will only cover part of the project.

Symens says customers on their fiber optic network will get world class service.

Symens says they are also applying for the FCC “Rural Digital Opportunity Fund” grants that will be awarded through an auction.