The district of Märkisch-Oderland continues to systematically drive forward the expansion of its digital infrastructure. With the entry into the next phase of the fiber optic expansion, a significant milestone has been reached: the aim is to provide the entire district with high-performance and future-proof Internet connections.
The district set the course for the subsidized broadband expansion back in 2016 as part of the so-called "Weiße-Flecken-Programm" (White Spots Program). Since then, over 38,000 private and commercial address points have been connected to a high-performance fiber optic network. The completion of this first funding phase is planned by 2026.
Parallel to this, a significant proportion has been supplemented by self-funded expansion projects by various telecommunications companies. Nevertheless, there is still a need for action, particularly in areas that were previously not eligible for funding.
The district has therefore now taken the next step: The award procedure for the broadband concession is currently underway as part of the new federal funding guideline "Gigabit-RL 2.0". The aim is to provide an additional 13,000 address points with a fiber optic connection to the home (FTTH - Fibre to the Home).
On completion of all current and planned measures - i.e. the "Weiße-Flecken-Programm", the self-business projects and the new gigabit funding - nationwide broadband coverage of at least 300 Mbit/s for downloads and 150 Mbit/s for uploads will be ensured.
The funding for the new expansion stage comes from federal and state funds. The federal government alone is providing around 61.2 million euros, while the state of Brandenburg is contributing an additional 30.3 million euros. The district is covering its own municipal contribution of 2.3 million.
A total of around 51,000 address points in the district of Märkisch-Oderland will then benefit directly or indirectly from a subsidized fibre optic expansion - a decisive step towards digital services of general interest and equal living conditions in urban and rural areas.
What's next?
In the coming months, the district will provide information about the expansion plans, timelines and affected areas.
The expansion poses a logistical and constructional challenge, especially in rural areas. The district is therefore already asking for your understanding for possible restrictions during the construction phases.
Further information
All information about broadband expansion, participating project partners, address lists, funding areas and contacts can be found on the website of the district.