Lewiston Announces Fiber Expansion Leadership Teams

Nonprofit Confluence Fiber Communications to oversee community broadband network build-out and operations.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 7:06pm

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A highly detailed, glowing 3D illustration of a complex fiber optic cable network, with pulsing neon lights tracing the intricate pathways of the digital infrastructure, conceptually representing the advanced technology powering the community broadband project.Confluence Fiber Communications' new broadband network will bring high-speed internet access and digital connectivity to the Lewiston community.Lewiston Today

The Port of Lewiston and Pivot-Tech Development have announced the formation of a Board of Directors and Community Advisory Group to lead the expansion and operation of a new community broadband network in Lewiston, Idaho. The nonprofit Confluence Fiber Communications will be responsible for building, operating, and maintaining the fiber infrastructure with the goal of expanding affordable high-speed internet access to local residents and businesses.

Why it matters

Access to reliable, high-quality internet is essential for critical community services like healthcare, education, public safety, and business growth. This public-private partnership aims to bring affordable broadband to the Lewiston region, supporting long-term economic and community development.

The details

Confluence Fiber Communications was established through a collaboration between the Port of Lewiston and Pivot-Tech Development. The nonprofit will oversee the completion of the city's fiber network and work to provide affordable broadband service. A Board of Directors has been appointed to guide the effort, including members with backgrounds in fire services, port operations, and utility leadership. In addition, a Community Advisory Group has been formed to provide input and help connect the project with local residents and businesses.

  • Confluence Fiber Communications was established in March 2026.

The players

Port of Lewiston

A local government agency responsible for economic development and infrastructure projects in the Lewiston region.

Pivot-Tech Development, Inc.

A private technology and infrastructure development company partnering with the Port of Lewiston on the community broadband network.

Confluence Fiber Communications

A nonprofit organization created to oversee the expansion and operation of the community broadband network in Lewiston.

Travis Myklebust

A former Lewiston fire chief and current Fire Science professor at Lewis-Clark State College, serving on the Confluence Fiber Communications Board of Directors.

Mary Hasenoehrl

A former Port of Lewiston commissioner, serving on the Confluence Fiber Communications Board of Directors.

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What they’re saying

“Access to reliable, high-quality internet is essential for services including healthcare, education, public safety and business.”

— Travis Myklebust, Board Member, Confluence Fiber Communications

“The project is intended to support business growth and long-term community development.”

— Bert Sahlberg, Communications Manager, Clearwater Paper Corporation

What’s next

Confluence Fiber Communications will begin construction on the community broadband network in the coming months, with the goal of providing affordable high-speed internet access to Lewiston residents and businesses by the end of 2027.

The takeaway

This public-private partnership demonstrates how local governments and private companies can collaborate to bring critical infrastructure like high-speed internet to underserved communities, supporting economic growth and improving access to essential services.