Stevens County
| Year | Rank | 100/20 Mbps |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | #18 of 87 | 96.06% |
| 2022 | #13 of 87 | 97.08% |
| 2021 | #14 of 87 | 96.79% |
| 2020 | #11 of 87 | 96.79% |
| 2019 | #10 of 87 | 96.74% |
| 2018 | #7 of 87 | 96.74% |
| 2017 | #5 of 87 | 96.73% |
Stevens County: Good Coverage But Need a Bump Up
Stevens County ranks 18 (down 5 points) for broadband access out of 87 counties. They have 96.06 percent coverage to broadband of 100 Mbps down and 20 up. They have 124 households without access to broadband at that speed. Estimates indicate that it will cost $1.1 million to get to ubiquitous broadband in the county.
Stevens County has been involved with broadband for years – going back to working with Blandin Foundation-led, Minnesota Intelligent Rural Communities (2009-2012) effort.
They have been stalled at 97 percent, with a slight dip this year, which is likely based on map challenges and corrections.
In December 2022, Runestone Telephone received $2.5 million to expand broadband in Grant, Stevens, and Traverse Counties.
Stevens County retains their green ranking because they are so close to goal but they will need a push to close the gap.
Household Density
5.5
Number of Providers
12
As of 2023 · Source: MN DEED
Households with Device Access
statewide
statewide
statewide
statewide
statewide
Has Worked with Blandin Foundation
Yes
Has Received MN Grant(s)
Yes
2022 – Runestone Telephone Association – Herman-Dumont – GRANT $2,493,637
2017 – Advantenon – Rural Grant, Stevens and Wilkin Counties – Grant $316,554
2014 – Otter Tail Telcom, Swan Lake West – Award: $438,937.