Fiber Optic Internet
Published on May 20, 2025
Fiber optic internet installation in the right-of-way and easements has begun in the City of Medina! Fiber, otherwise known as broadband, is a private utility such as gas and electric.
Midcontinent Communications (Midco) signed a franchise agreement with the City in January 2025 to provide Subscribers with a technically advanced and reliable Cable System capable of delivering approximately 80 digital channels of programming.
Midco is excited to bring fiber internet to homes and businesses in Medina this summer; and will be working throughout the city, with installations expected to occur over the next year.
Residents should note that the project is not being carried out by the City of Medina, nor does the city control the pace of work, but Midco has obtained city right-of-way permits to perform this work.
Fiber optic internet offers a new, price competitive choice for our residents and businesses.
Visit Midco.com/Medina today to preregister for services and view a live map showing fiber construction dates, progress, and service availability in Medina. You can also sign up for updates on the construction progress and be placed on the priority list for when services launch at your address. Business owners should fill out the consultation form to be contacted by a customer service representative.
Fiber Optic Cable Installation Process
There are multiple phases for underground fiber projects. Here is a summary:
- Work in the right-of-way or easement work requires a Gopher State One Call to locate private utilities (gas, electric, cable) with flags and paint. Read about right-of-way and easements here. Most residents will have some utility markings in the right-of-way or easement of their property. The project will likely start soon after these markings and flags appear.
- Underground installation of conduit (duct for fiber), and other structures involve hand digging and boring, which is called directional drilling. This allows for minimal digging and disruption to the ground.
- Installation of fiber cable in the conduit, splicing, and wire connections.
- Midco will remove markers and perform restoration of grass and items that may be affected such as sprinkler systems or underground dog containment systems, etc.
- Residents may choose to contract with Midco.
FAQs
To help residents better understand fiber optic internet in Medina, this section contains answers to some frequently asked questions.
Why are there white lines and flags on my property?
These white lines represent the anticipated work area of the underground fiber installation.
Can I move or remove the flags in my yard?
No! These flags are required by law and are important for showing where the underground private utilities such as gas, electric, and cable are located. View the Gopher State One Call website for more information.
Who authorized permission for fiber optic internet installation?
Companies must obtain a city right-of-way permit and meet requirements according to city ordinance(PDF, 183KB). If the requirements are met, the city cannot deny them. The city also cannot choose one service provider over another.
Who oversees these companies?
Fiber optic service is considered a private utility and is regulated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The FCC is responsible for managing the business practices of each cable company. View the FCC website for more information.
What if I have items in the right-of-way or easement? How can I protect them?
Read about right-of-way and easements here. The companies will do their best to not disturb existing landscaping and other items. However, items within the right-of-way or easement may be affected. It is beneficial for the contractor to be aware of any underground items you may have in the right-of-way. Please mark/ flag all sprinkler heads, dog fence lines, sump pump lines or other underground items in the right-of-way or easement to make sure they are avoided as much as possible during construction. If possible, please reach out to the contractor directly regarding your items.
How long will crews be in my neighborhood?
Most projects are finished within a week. Restoration of any items affected may take longer. The city does not control the pace or schedule of the work.
Why are they digging holes in my yard?
Crews dig small holes to visually verify the fiber installation will not hit an existing buried utility.
What will I see in my right-of-way or easement when the project is finished?
The fiber company will be installing utility boxes that are flush to the ground. These boxes typically have a green cover. Some properties may also have a small above ground pedestal.
Who is responsible for repairing my right-of-way or easement?
Midco is responsible for restoration of any items affected such as grass, sprinkler systems, pet containment systems, asphalt, concrete, etc.
What if I have complaints about restoration?
Midco is dedicated to working with residents to answer questions and ensure yards are restored to their original condition. Text 64326, email homesales@midco.com or start a live chat with a Midco team member at Midco.com/Medina to answer any questions you have.
Additional Help
Please contact Midco before contacting the city. For additional help, please email city staff at city@medinamn.gov who will contact Midco in an attempt to assist with the issue you are having.
What if I don't want fiber optic cable service?
Residents are not obligated to sign-up for service.
Contact Information
Midco is dedicated to working with residents to answer questions and ensure yards are restored to their original condition. Text 64326, email homesales@midco.com or start a live chat with a Midco team member at Midco.com/Medina to answer any questions you have.