Golden, Columbus awarded Smart Rural Community designation by NTCA, Adams Fiber

ADAMS COUNTY, Ill. — The villages of Golden and Columbus recently were officially recognized as a Smart Rural Community by NTCA, The Rural Broadband Association, in partnership with Adams Fiber, highlighting the village’s forward-thinking approach to technology and community development.

This prestigious recognition celebrates the commitment of Golden and Columbus to leverage advanced fiber broadband solutions to improve quality of life, foster innovation and drive economic growth.

The announcement for both communities took place during special village board meetings. Representatives from Adams Fiber formally presented this accolade to Mayor Janie Buss and the village board of Golden and Mayor Rob Winters and the village board of Columbus.

“Golden and Columbus are shining examples of how technology can empower small communities to achieve big goals,” said Lori Miller, marketing coordinator at Adams Fiber, in a press release. “From education to business growth and healthcare, the possibilities enabled by Adams Fiber’s connectivity continue to transform daily life in meaningful ways. We are proud to partner with Golden and Columbus on this incredible journey and to have our headquarters here.”

Through a sustained investment of more than $1.3 million in cutting-edge fiber infrastructure for the Golden community and more than $200,000 for the residents of Columbus, Adams Fiber has unlocked numerous advancements for these communities:

• Education: Increased access to online learning platforms and educational resources.
• Business Growth: Seamless connectivity helps local businesses thrive in the fast-paced digital economy.
• Healthcare: Enhanced telehealth services ensure residents receive quality care from home.

By joining NTCA’s Smart Rural Community network, Golden and Columbus now stands alongside other innovative rural communities nationwide, using broadband technology to shape a stronger future. Benefits of this designation include being featured on the official Smart Rural Community website, access to NTCA outreach initiatives and exclusive marketing tools to highlight the achievement.

The Smart Rural Community program, created by NTCA, celebrates rural areas that harness broadband to improve lives, drive innovation and promote economic development.

For more information on Smart Rural Community designation and NTCA’s initiative, visit www.smartruralcommunity.com.