A federal loan will pay for 1,524 miles of fiber optic cable in north central Minnesota over the next five years, state congressional leaders said.

The USDA Rural Development loan, authorized in the 2008 Farm Bill, will bring broadband Internet service to 7,160 homes and 795 businesses in Todd, Cass, Crow Wing, and Morrison counties.

Consolidated Telecommunications Company of Brainerd will install the cable.

Minnesotas politicians are happy:

“Every American should have access to broadband Internet service just as they have access to telephone service and electricity,” said Sen. Amy Klobuchar. “I have heard first-hand from Minnesotans about the importance of having access to fast and affordable high-speed Internet. These funds will help bring quality Internet access to rural Minnesota.”

Sen. Al Franken said: “Minnesota’s rural communities need to stay connected to the rest of the world in order to compete in today’s global economy. Strengthening rural broadband will create jobs, foster economic growth, and help keep young people in the communities they grew up in.”

“This is a good investment for rural Minnesota because it opens up new economic development opportunities and creates jobs,” said Rep. Jim Oberstar. “In the 19th and 20th centuries, railroads and highways helped our farms and forests send their goods to market. Today, broadband will help us send our ideas into the global marketplace.”

“This loan will finance essential infrastructure that most urban and suburban residents take for granted. Reliable, affordable broadband service is an essential,” said Rep. Collin Peterson.