Frontier Communications will take part in the build out of a $1.5 million 1 Gbps network in Southern Illinois.

The network, which was announced by Illinois Governor Pat Quinn, will serve residents, businesses and institutions, and is partnership between the city of Carbondale, Southern Illinois University and Connect SI.

“Ultra high-speed internet access is a key to success for the future of Illinois,” Governor Quinn said. “In order to remain competitive in today’s digital society, Illinois must have broadband infrastructure second to none.”

The $1.5 million investment, supported by the Governor’s “Illinois jobs now” capital construction program, provides funding for Frontier to build a high-speed fiber optic network to Carbondale’s businesses, schools, hospitals and neighborhoods.

The gigabit broadband is up to 100 times faster than speeds currently available in the area, and the hope is that the faster speeds will bring in new business to the region and enable Southern Illinois University’s scholars, innovators and entrepreneurs to connect globally.

Capabilities for telemedicine and telehealth through the University’s School of Medicine will also impact residents in underserved areas in Southern Illinois and allow for faster transmission of medical records and vital information.