RHINELANDER - Getting on to the Internet could get a lot easier for people here in the Northwoods.

The Oneida County Board of Supervisors agreed to a public-private partnership with a Phelps-based Internet Service Provider.

SonicNet will build up to eight Broadband towers in the county by the end of next year. Officials say this is a major victory for local businesses and local Internet users.

Jim Kumbera, Oneida County Economic Development Corporation, says, "This is going to give us a very competitive edge in attracting businesses, attracting homebased businesses, and the key thing is it's going to give an opportunity to our youth in the community who are very restricted in broadband in many cases."

Jeffrey Collins, SonicNet, says, "Economic Development loan will help us to accelerate our growth and it will allow us to provide a more comprehensive network.

Collins adds this loan will help with the growth of small businesses, distance learning, telecommunication for healthcare, and tourism.

Officials say they are hoping to have the entire Northwoods area high-speed ready by fall of 2010.