REINBECK – Reinbeck Telecommunications Utility (RTU) is announcing a new partnership with Traer Municipal Utilities (TMU) to provide enhanced broadband services to the Traer community. This collaboration between two community-owned utilities will bring improved internet speeds, reliability, and customer service to Traer residents while strengthening RTU’s ability to serve all customers.

Building on Rural Service Success

RTU has been successfully providing fixed wireless service to rural areas of Grundy and Tama Counties for several years, serving residents who previously lacked access to fast, affordable, and reliable internet service. This proven track record of rural service delivery positions RTU well to assist TMU in improving broadband access for their community members.

“Our experience serving customers beyond Reinbeck’s city limits has been invaluable,” said Dan Smoldt, Chair of the RTU Board of Trustees. “We’ve learned how to effectively deliver quality internet service to diverse geographic areas, and we’re excited to bring that expertise to help our neighbors in Traer.”

Partnership Benefits Both Communities

TMU approached RTU last year seeking assistance in providing higher quality service to their community. TMU selected RTU as their partner due to the proximity of the two utilities and RTU’s established reputation as a trusted, community-owned internet provider.

“When we realized our community needed better broadband service than we could provide on our own, RTU was the first utility we thought of,” Eric McEwen, General Manager of Traer Municipal Utilities, said. “We knew RTU had the technical expertise and successful track record of serving rural customers that we needed. Most importantly, as a fellow municipal utility, we knew they would share our commitment to putting community needs first rather than focusing solely on profits.”

The partnership serves two important purposes: creating new revenue streams that will keep RTU financially healthy into the future and providing critical assistance to a fellow municipal broadband utility. This type of mutual support has been a key factor in making municipal internet providers successful throughout Iowa.

Strengthening Service for Reinbeck Residents

RTU customers in Reinbeck will continue to benefit from this expansion. Revenue from serving customers outside the city limits has been an important factor in allowing RTU to keep services affordable for Reinbeck residents. Additionally, income from rural and expanded service areas has enabled RTU to make continuous improvements to in-town services.

“This partnership demonstrates the strength of the municipal utility model,” Tyler Morgan, RTU General Manager, explained. “When community-owned providers work together, everyone benefits. Our Reinbeck customers can be confident that this expansion will only strengthen our ability to provide excellent service locally.”

Commitment to Quality Service

RTU remains dedicated to ensuring all communities receive high-quality, reliable telecommunications services. The utility’s expansion will not compromise service quality for existing customers. Instead, the experience and expertise gained from serving multiple communities will benefit all RTU customers through improved technical knowledge and enhanced financial stability.

Under the partnership agreement, RTU will upgrade TMU’s existing fixed wireless equipment with newer technology while TMU maintains ownership of their fiber network. RTU will provide operational expertise and customer service, ensuring Traer residents receive the improved internet experience they deserve.

Timeline

Customer billing will be converted from Traer Municipal Utilities to RTU as soon as the final agreement is executed. RTU will be upgrading the tower locations and customer equipment this summer and into the fall.

About Reinbeck Telecommunications Utility

RTU is a municipal telecommunications utility serving the city of Reinbeck and surrounding rural areas in Grundy and Tama Counties. As a community-owned provider, RTU is committed to delivering fast, affordable, and reliable internet services while supporting the economic development and quality of life in the communities it serves.

For more information about RTU services, visit www.reinbeck.net or call (319) 788-7888.