Fidium broadband is expanding into Maine which will allow more than 70 percent of Maine residents to receive faster internet connections.

The broadband service is owned by Consolidated Communications, they say that the expansion into the state will reach more than 400,000 homes and businesses.

CBS 13 reports that according to the National Bureau of Economic Research, broadband access can help reduce poverty, improve health, and also enhance economic opportunities.

Fidium hopes to expand access to thousands of Mainers by the end of the year.

The state had set a goal of connecting any Maine resident that wanted broadband access by the end of 2024.