Altmark is becoming a pioneer in broadband expansion – fast internet for everyone!

Altmark is becoming a pioneer in broadband expansion – fast internet for everyone!

In a significant step for the digital future of the Altmark, the broadband network in the region was recently almost completely activated. The network operator DNS:NET has taken over the newly created network, with three additional project areas in the Altmarkkreis Salzwedel being officially handed over to the operator on September 9, 2025. The Altmark Broadband Association (ZBA) underlined the Altmark's pioneering role in the area of ​​broadband expansion in Saxony-Anhalt. This development shows how important investments in digital infrastructure are for rural regions. According to Kommune21, funding agencies have invested over 143 million euros in the project, while the total costs are around 180 million euros.

Around 30,000 households, 900 companies and 500 institutional customers will benefit from fast internet connections, which not only improves the quality of life but also contributes to strengthening the business location. Patrick Puhlmann, the district administrator of the Stendal district, emphasized how important cooperation and the large number of actors involved are. Prime Minister Reiner Haseloff, who congratulated via video message, also emphasized the need for municipal cooperation.

Ceremonial handover and future plans

The official handover took place in Arendsee, where, in addition to the district administrators, representatives from PwC Germany and other guests were present, including Dr. Lydia Hüskens, Minister for Infrastructure and Digital. Steve Kanitz, the district administrator of Salzwedel, has already announced further measures to co-finance an additional 2,300 addresses. With an area of ​​4,700 square kilometers, the Altmark has established itself as the largest rurally funded broadband infrastructure project in Germany, which has been in planning since 2012 with a needs survey and the founding of the ZBA.

The goal of this initiative is to provide decentralized and underserved locations with high-speed Internet across the board, enabling speeds of up to 2,500 Mbit/s. This high bandwidth is of great importance not only for households, but also for the economy and contributes to digital resilience.

Long-term strategy for Saxony-Anhalt

Broadband expansion in Saxony-Anhalt is supported by a comprehensive gigabit strategy, which aims to connect all companies, public institutions, schools and private households to a gigabit network by 2030. The expansion is carried out both internally and through government funding, especially in areas where telecommunications companies have identified market failures, as mid.sachsen-anhalt.de reports. The project is sustainably financed through various funding sources, including the European Structural Funds and federal programs.

In summary, the Altmark is well on its way to bridging the digital divide and positioning itself as an example of successful digital infrastructure in rural areas. The region impressively shows how significant progress can be achieved for all citizens and companies through cooperation and investment.