(KAIR)--The Doniphan County communities of Troy and Wathena are in for an internet upgrade, as Rainbow Communications announces plans to begin construction for its fiber broadband network expansion into those two locations.

According to a release from the Everest-based company, the project "marks a significant milestone in delivering extremely fast internet connectivity to Troy and Wathena residents."

The work is being done through assistance from RVW, Inc., North Central Service, and DeAguiar Contracting, all named by Rainbow as "trusted partners."

According to the release, "Rainbow Communications embarked on its mission to enhance community development in the Doniphan County towns back in 2017, investing $103,000 to create a state-of-the-art fiber-optic network initially serving local businesses and anchor institutions," with the release saying the "investment not only met the immediate broadband needs of the community but also exemplified a forward-thinking approach, ensuring adaptability and scalability for future broadband demands."

Now, the company is "unveiling an investment of $6.1 million" for Troy and Wathena, with Rainbow calling that expansion of fiber broadband "an ambitious project" which "involves the installation of nearly 121 miles of cutting-edge fiber optic cabling," with the company's release explaining that "by extending this high-speed infrastructure, over 2,200 residents are poised to experience a digital transformation like never before."

Construction is set to start this month, with in-home installations expected this Fall.

Rainbow, in the release, says customers can anticipate speeds of up to 2 gigabits per second, with businesses, schools, and health facilities to also experience upgraded access to exceedingly fast speeds of up to 10 gigabits per second capability.

Rainbow Communications CEO, Jason Smith, in the release calls the expansion more than just about internet connectivity, saying "it's about the progress and prosperity of our local communities," adding that the fiber network expansion to Troy and Wathena homes has been "a part of [Rainbow's] long-term plan since day one."

Rainbow, the release says, is currently cutting customers to fiber in Hiawatha, with other towns on the list including Seneca, Sabetha, Horton, Highland, and Elwood.

The expansion, the release from Rainbow says "isn't merely about providing internet connectivity; it's a strategic move to foster innovation, education, and economic growth within their local communities"

Rainbow is also expanding its fiber network beyond its current service areas, courtesy of the Broadband Acceleration Grant, with Rainbow investing over $800,000 to bring fiber to 97 additional homes in Troy and Wathena, with the State of Kansas providing a $650,000 match. The homes are located south of Troy along Mineral Point Road, north of HWY 36, and southwest of Wathena. The residents in the expansion areas will receive a letter from Rainbow notifying them of construction in the next week.