UNION RIVER TO JOIN DIRECT COMMUNICATIONS FAMILY
Aurora, ME (December 30th, 2024)- Direct Communications of Rockland, Idaho announced that it has acquired Union River Telephone Company of Aurora, Maine.
Union River Telephone was founded in 1905, starting with hand-crank phones and 25 subscribers. Over the decades, it modernized its systems, introducing dial services by 1960 and expanding coverage to underserved areas. In 2000, it launched Rivah.net to provide internet services,
eventually becoming the first in New England to fully transition to fiber optic technology in 2007. “We are confident that with this sale to Direct Communications, the tradition of providing our customers the same access to state of the art services that Union River has provided for 119 years will continue” said Kathryn Silsby, President of Union River Telephone.
Direct Communications, a family-owned broadband provider since 1954, specializes in delivering reliable high-speed internet to rural communities. With decades of experience in fiber construction and cutting-edge technology, the company is committed to enhancing and modernizing digital fiber networks to meet evolving customer needs.
“We are excited about the opportunity that this acquisition will bring. For the past 70 years we have been striving to help bridge the digital divide between rural and urban areas. We hope by investing into what has been done, we can provide an impact to the communities that we serve.” said Tim May, President of Direct Communications.
Direct Communications aims to upgrade current customers to faster broadband speeds as quickly as possible while introducing the convenience of online payment options. “We are going to build upon what has been done and create even more value for our customers. We value the relationships that have been built and want to give back to our customers through new technology and being involved in the communities where they live.” said May.
Direct Communications, already established in Maine with offices in Unity, is excited to welcome Union River to the family. This acquisition will allow Direct Communications to combine network resources, enhance customer value, and continue to work hard to help our communities thrive.
