ELK, Wash. — Broadlinc, the Spokane Regional Broadband Development Authority, will take action to restore the internet connection near Elk after the Oregon Fire in 2023.
The area near Elk in North Spokane County suffered significant structure loss which left residents without reliable internet, cellular coverage or ability to contact 911 services.
Medical Lake Mayor Terri Cooper, who also serves as the chair of the Long Term Recovery Group (LTRG) and vice chair of the Broadlinc Governing Board, says recovery of internet is essential.
“I couldn’t be happier for the Elk area, help is on the way, and internet connectivity will go a long way in assisting with access to basic essential services and the ability to receive emergency alerts,” said Cooper.
Broadlinc's board approved the deployment of a Cellular on Wheels (COW) tower to provide temporary internet to the community.
Broadlinc says a long-term plan to extend coverage through the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) infrastructure expansion will begin in late 2025.
"This project is a critical step toward restoring essential services and supporting the recovery of our community," said County Commissioner and Broadlinc Governing Board Chair Mary Kuney. "By deploying the COW, we are addressing the immediate needs of residents while also laying the groundwork for long-term infrastructure improvements."
Boradlinc says once the COW is operational, service will be provided through KnightCom. Residents in the affected area can contact admin@knightcom.net for pricing plans and coverage in their location
"The Oregon Fire Impact area has been in recovery mode for over a year. The Broadlinc COW deployment is a crucial step in restoring essential services to those affected in this community," said North Spokane County Commissioner Josh Kerns.
For information on Broadlinc and the COW tower, visit the Broadlinc website.
