By Raychael Moseley / Managing Editor

Marshall Municipal Utilities reported progress on its broadband expansion project after completing a review with the U.S. Department of Agriculture of approximately $3.3 million in funding submissions.

Controller Tony Bersano updated the Board of Public Works during its Wednesday, Oct. 28, meeting, reporting that the USDA had completed its review of the first four submissions under the utility’s second broadband grant.

“We had our USDA auditor in last week,” Bersano said. “He made it through everything and he issued a letter the end of the week.”

Bersano said the first four submissions totaled approximately $3.3 million, leaving roughly $7 million in grant funding remaining.

MMU submitted its fifth request at the end of September and has approximately $3 million in additional project expenses that have not yet been submitted.

“Overall, everything went pretty smooth. Very minor issues,” Bersano said.

The USDA is expected to return near the end of 2028 for a final review of the project.

Meanwhile, construction continues across several areas of Saline County as MMU works to expand broadband service to additional customers.

IT and Broadband Director Jim Widel reported that contractors are making progress on fiber installation in Grand Pass and Nelson, with additional construction expected to begin in Malta Bend.

“Contractors are making good progress,” Widel said.

According to the department’s project status report, crews completed 14 new installations and seven service transfers during the reporting period.

The report also states that crews are finishing fiber installation along Highway YY after encountering several problem areas that required additional work.

MMU is also working to obtain railroad and Missouri Department of Transportation permits for portions of the expansion.

During the meeting, Widel said Lowe’s had contacted MMU about obtaining internet service after construction and paving work at the property had been completed.

The utility’s broadband expansion remains ongoing, with additional construction, fiber installation and permit approvals needed before several project areas can be completed.