Expanding Links: STELLAR & 123NET Grow Michigan Fibre Routes

STELLAR Broadband has announced a partnership with 123NET to expand high-capacity fibre connectivity from Lansing to Grand Rapids, strengthening Michigan’s broadband infrastructure.

The project is set to deliver more bandwidth and reliability to communities across the region, supporting growing digital demands.

The agreement has secured access to 83 miles of new underground, high-density fibre. The new route will form part of a broader network loop now covering around 225 miles, linking Southfield, Lansing and Grand Rapids with a continuous, high-capacity backbone.

Both STELLAR Broadband and 123NET have provided multi-million dollar investments for the initiative, reflecting their shared goal of supporting long-term internet infrastructure growth and improving digital access across Michigan.

Richard Laing, President and Chief Operating Officer of STELLAR Broadband, says: "Securing a continuous fibre route from Southfield to Grand Rapids is a transformative moment for STELLAR Broadband.

“We value our partnership with 123NET and the opportunity it creates for STELLAR to expand into new Michigan markets. 

“This investment ensures our customers experience unmatched reliability and ultra-fast connectivity as we continue bringing modern broadband and technology solutions to the communities we serve."

Fibre loop boosts regional connectivity

As part of the agreement, STELLAR has also secured capacity on 123NET’s Southfield-to-Lansing fibre route, adding further resilience by creating multiple, diverse network paths. As a result, it enhances uptime, performance and routing options for customers.

The newly completed loop connects three key metropolitan areas in Michigan and increases service reach for STELLAR. By linking these points, the network helps ensure consistent fibre coverage through a wider footprint.

123NET’s Chief Revenue Officer Chuck Irvin, says: "This fibre project provides a second, redundant 123NET route between Lansing and Grand Rapids while also reaching into communities that previously lacked reliable connectivity. 

“Partnering with STELLAR brings value to both companies, but more importantly, strengthens Michigan's connectivity infrastructure and brings more options to area residents, many of whom previously were underserved or unserved."

Improved access for residents and businesses

The upgraded network allows STELLAR to offer its multi-Gigabit fibre services to more MDUs, new developments and businesses. The aim is to deliver consistent, ultra-fast speeds to both growing cities and less well-connected areas.

By extending its reach, STELLAR brings improved digital access to underserved communities, enabling more residents to benefit from modern broadband. It supports key applications like remote work, online learning, streaming and smart-home technologies.

With higher capacity and improved reliability, the loop also supports backhaul needs – the infrastructure that carries data between local networks and the internet. This is vital for maintaining service quality and performance as demand increases.

Long-term digital infrastructure

The investment reinforces STELLAR’s position as a key infrastructure partner in Michigan, working alongside developers, local governments and businesses to support future-ready communities.

Fibre networks play a central role in enabling digital services across sectors. Projects like this help ensure communities are equipped for changing internet demands without needing major upgrades in future.

By building capacity and resilience into its network now, STELLAR can deliver consistent performance and expand quickly as more areas seek high-speed connectivity. The collaboration with 123NET avoids duplicated efforts and accelerates availability in more locations.

As bandwidth needs continue to grow, network infrastructure projects like this one lay the foundation for digital services across the region. The fibre loop now connecting Southfield, Lansing and Grand Rapids represents a scalable platform built to support Michigan’s connected future.