Your Neighbors.
Your Network.
Alexandria is building a mesh network together. No cell towers. No internet. Just neighbors making sure we can reach each other when the power goes out.
What Is This
A messaging network that runs without cell towers or the internet.
Secure Messaging Off the Grid
MeshCore is a messaging app that uses small radios instead of cell towers. Messages hop from node to node. If the power goes out, your network stays up.
Built by You, for Your Community
Anyone can add a node: a small radio that repeats messages and extends the network. Put one on your roof and you extend coverage for everyone around you.
Real Technology, Proven in the Field
MeshCore runs on open-source firmware across thousands of nodes worldwide. Emergency responders, ham operators, and everyday people use it as a backup they actually own.
Why This Matters
When the power goes out, we still need to talk.
For Our Neighbors
Storms knock out cell towers. This network lets Alexandria talk on its own.
Private & Secure
Every message is signed and authenticated. No companies collecting your data.
One Node Helps Everyone
Put a solar-powered radio on your roof and you extend the network for everyone around you.
Built By Locals, For Locals
A group of Alexandria residents building a network to keep our community connected.
Who This Is For
You do not need to be a technician to help.
🏡 Homeowners and renters. If you have a roof, a fence, or a tall tree, you can host a node. A solar repeater runs on its own for about $100 bucks.
📱 People who want a backup. Cell service drops during storms and emergencies. A small MeshCore radio paired with your phone lets you message neighbors who are on the network when the grid is down.
🔧 Hobbyists and makers. Flash a board, mount it, watch it appear on the map. Affordable hardware, open-source firmware, and we will help you set it up.
👥 Anyone who cares about Alexandria. No hardware needed to contribute. Test equipment, share information, or help spread the word.
Why Deploy a Repeater
Cell coverage will not be there when we need it.
🌨️ Minnesota Weather Does Not Care About Cell Towers
Severe Minnesota weather knocks out power and cell service. When networks get overloaded, phones cannot connect. A mesh repeater on your property works without the grid, cell carriers, or internet.
📱 Rural Coverage Gaps Are Real
Outlying areas of Alexandria and Douglas County already have dead zones with poor or no cell service. During emergencies those gaps get worse. Your repeater fills them in.
🚨 When Emergencies Hit, Communication Is Everything
When cell service goes down, people cannot check on neighbors and information about road conditions or shelters cannot spread. A mesh network keeps people talking.
💰 It Is Affordable
A solar repeater costs around $100 to $150 for radio, enclosure, and panel. It runs on sunlight and needs almost no maintenance.
🏡 It Is Easier Than You Think
A repeater is a small weatherproof box with a solar panel. Mount it on your roof, barn, or garage and it runs on its own.
🤝 Your Node Protects More Than Your Family
Mesh networks get stronger with every node. Your repeater might be what lets a message reach someone three miles away.
Getting Started
Pick Your Radio
Several affordable options work great. We will help you choose. No engineering degree required.
Flash & Connect
We will walk you through the setup, including pairing your phone with the radio. Just ask in our Discord and we will get you sorted.
You Are On the Mesh
Start messaging neighbors on the mesh and sharing alerts.
Come Hang Out & Build With Us
Got questions or want to help? We are a group of Alexandria neighbors building this out together.
Join Our Discord →