Regional cable MSO Midco is adding yet another project to its Fiber Forward initiative, an investment that uses the company’s fiber network to bring 10 Gpbs speeds to Lawrence, Kansas and its surrounding communities.
Earlier this year, the company provided updates on similar projects for Grand Forks, ND, and Greater Detroit Lakes, MN.
The $25 million Grand Forks project, which started last fall, is progressing, with most of the work expected to be completed over the next three years. Once finished, more than 40,000 homes and businesses in the Grand Forks area will have access to Midco’s fiber network.
Midco’s Greater Detroit Lakes area buildout is complete in the Audubon and Lake Park communities while continuing in Hawley and Detroit Lakes through 2023.
The $30 million Kansas project will make fiber available to more than 65,000 homes and businesses in Basehor, Eudora and Lawrence. The upgrade is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
The announcement comes on the heels of Midco’s five-year anniversary in the state, a presence that includes partnerships with local groups, including the Douglas County Boys & Girls Club, Just Food and the Lawrence Public Library. Midco also sponsors KU Athletics.
“Fiber Forward is an investment in Kansans. This transformative fiber upgrade will benefit the many folks we serve,” said Tom McAdaragh, Midco president and COO, in a prepared statement about the Midco Kansas news. “It will provide fast symmetrical speeds, low latency, unmatched reliability and rock-solid security. Telehealth professionals, online learners, entrepreneurs, gamers and so many more will benefit from Fiber Forward.”
“Broadband deployment and improvement are critical for the future of Kansas and can unlock new opportunities for our state,” said Sen. Jerry Moran, in a prepared statement. “The investment Midco announced today to upgrade its networks in Kansas will provide a new generation of broadband service for businesses and create new opportunities to innovate and connect.”
