More than 4,000 Washington County homes and businesses will gain access to Fidium’s multi-gig speed network through expansion
WASHINGTON COUNTY, Maine – August 5, 2025 – Fidium, Maine’s best internet provider according to CNET, is expanding its all-fiber internet network in Washington County bringing symmetrical, multi-gig speed internet to more than 4,000 homes and businesses in the Calais and Lubec areas. In the Calais area this includes Calais, Alexander, Baring Plantation, Cathance Township, Charlotte, Cooper, Crawford, Meddybemps, and parts of Robbinston. Expansion will also take place in Lubec, as well as parts of Trescott Township and Whiting. Fiber infrastructure construction is scheduled to begin as soon as August 15, with exact start dates varying by location.
Fidium’s expansion will upgrade internet access for these communities, offering benefits that come with fiber broadband access, including improved educational outcomes, reduced healthcare costs and enhanced economic opportunities.
In 2024, a collaborative partnership between Fidium, the Greater East Grand Region Economic Council and the Sunrise County Economic Council resulted in more than 2,000 residents and businesses in 19 area communities being connected to reliable, high-speed fiber internet service. Community leaders celebrated fiber access at the Sunrise County Economic Council’s regional summit, during which speakers expressed how broadband provides a positive outlook for the future of the region.
“Fiber connectivity for these very rural Washington County communities was only a dream for residents who have long struggled with antiquated infrastructure”, said Elaine Abbott, regional broadband coordinator for Sunrise County Economic Council. “As a result of partnerships with Fidium and Maine Connectivity Authority, residents will finally be able to participate in telehealth, educational opportunities, civic engagement, and the global economy.”
Today, more than 385,000 Maine homes and businesses have access to Fidium, including Eastport, Danforth, Perry, Princeton, Topsfield, Vanceboro and Waite, with expanded fiber access coming soon for more locations. Check your address for service availability at FidiumFiber.com.
“The wait is nearly over, as Fidium’s future-proof network expansion will bring all-new opportunities and benefits to Calais, Lubec and more Washington County communities,” said Sarah Davis, vice president of Market Development for Fidium. “Featuring superior speeds, low latency and high reliability, fiber technology is transformative for communities. New fiber access empowers entertainment, educational and economic opportunities that were previously not accessible. Fidium expansion will bridge the digital divide, upgrading locations to access fiber connectivity and all the accompanying entertainment and lifestyle benefits.”
Fiber broadband is a future-proof technology that can be easily upgraded without rewiring the entire network. Fiber networks are more sustainable than other technologies with significantly lower power needs and reduced use of plastics. Fiber optic cables are not susceptible to corrosion or electrical interference making them more resilient to extreme weather conditions, including high winds, lightning strikes and floods. Fiber networks require less overall repair and maintenance and boasts up to 67% faster repair times than other wired technologies.
Fiber construction involves installing new fiber optic lines along roads and in public utility areas, which may require digging or climbing utility poles. Crews will work along the edge of private property within public rights-of-way and utility easements. Construction may require temporary traffic detours, noise and dust. Paint markings and flags may be placed to designate active work zones and will be removed once work is complete. As fiber expansion progresses, safety protocols are at top-of-mind for crews, and motorists are asked to use caution when driving in construction zones. Crews will work quickly and safely, clean up after themselves and always strive to minimize disruption.
More information on the fiber build progress will be shared with local officials, as well as residents. Mailers, door hangers and construction alerts will be distributed to keep the public informed, and Fidium representatives will visit neighborhoods to share more about what to expect during construction, and how to sign up to be the first notified as soon as service is ready to install.
To learn more about the fiber internet construction process and sign up for updates on our progress, visit FidiumFiber.com. Residents with questions or concerns about fiber expansion or future service availability may contact 1.877.769.4771.
About Fidium
Fidium is the people’s fiber provider, offering symmetrical multi-gig speed internet service and an exceptional customer experience. Fidium is currently available in California, Illinois, Maine, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, Texas and Vermont with new locations available daily. Learn more at FidiumFiber.com.