Decorah Utility Board Reviews Construction Timeline, Community Response to Fiber Rollout

If no one funds local news, your community is just rumors. Help Decorah News bring facts home. DECORAH — The Decorah Communications Utility Board said construction on a municipal fiber network could begin earlier than expected, while early outreach to residents shows strong interest mixed with hesitation about in-home installation. At Tuesday's meeting, members discussed updates from a preconstruction meeting with contractors and consultants overseeing the fiber-to-the-home project. Project representatives said the anticipated construction start date has shifted. While initial plans targeted early May, contractors are now aiming for the week of April 27, depending on final coordination. Crews are expected to first address existing problem areas near the project's starting point before preparing key facilities, including initial work at the Decorah Public Library, and then moving into broader installation. Utility coordination is already underway. Representatives said locating underground infrastructure will begin in the coming weeks, followed by prestaking work to map the network's path. Construction will proceed in phases, with crews working ahead of schedule in some zones by one to two weeks. IT Director Chopper Albert said work in the downtown area will be delayed until after Nordic Fest to avoid conflicts with heavy foot traffic, roadwork and ongoing activities. Contractors indicated they could shift work elsewhere during that period rather than pause entirely. The phased rollout remains a central part of the plan. Albert confirmed that one zone is fully designed and approved, with additional zones ready to follow. Outreach to residents in upcoming areas is expected to begin immediately, including mailers and on-site visits. According to City Clerk Keri Sand, early feedback suggests about 60% of residents contacted so far have expressed interest in the service. Many are asking logistical questions, such as where equipment will be installed inside their homes, while others have raised concerns about privacy, cost or whether participation is required. Albert clarified that while the fiber infrastructure will be installed as part of a municipal utility project, residents are not required to subscribe to the service. Outreach efforts now include informational flyers explaining both the purpose of the project and how to opt in. Some objections have surfaced, though officials described them as typically limited. A small number of residents have objected to in-home installation, while others are hesitant due to existing contracts with private providers. At the same time, Sand reported receiving calls from residents seeking to delay renewing current service agreements so they can switch once the municipal network becomes available. Board members said such reactions are typical in communities launching similar systems and said the current level of interest aligns with expectations for a project of this scale. Fresh stories, delivered! Sign up for the free DecorahNews.com newsletter and stay informed, inspired, and ahead of the curve.