By Robert Williams

Editor

Frazee leaders met with representatives from Midco in a groundbreaking event on Thursday, June 6, to celebrate its investment in bringing a new option for internet and TV services to the Frazee community. 

“Today, we’re going to break ground and celebrate Midco’s expansion into the city of Frazee,” Midco Vice President of Field Operations Steve Mattern said. “Midco is investing $2.6 million into a state-of-the-art Fiber-to-the-Premises broadband service to nearly 900 homes and businesses in the community.”

Fiber installation has already begun around town. According to Mattern, some customers can expect to be hooked up this fall with the remainder of the community expected to be online in the spring of 2025.

Mattern also spoke on how Midco not only brings fiber, but the company also invests in local businesses through Midco Foundation grants and employee volunteer programs.

“It keeps us very engaged in the community and Midco is very focused on being a force for good in the communities that we serve,” he said.

Andrew Curley, Senior Director of Government Relations at Midco, noted the company has a “really good partnership” with Frazee and introduced Frazee Mayor Mark Flemmer, Frazee Community Club President Tom Watson, and Frazee Economic Development Authority Chairman Hank Ludtke, who all spoke on the positives of Midco’s arrival in town.

“Frazee is in for some exciting times; we’ve got a lot of stuff going on around here,” said Watson.

Detroit Lakes Regional Chamber of Commerce President Carrie Johnston also welcomed Midco to Frazee and the region.

Community members joined Midco team members in turning the first shovels of dirt to kick off the build and shared a lunch provided by The Gobbler Grub and Pub.

Midco is investing $2.6 million in private capital to bring Fiber-to-the-Premise to homes and businesses in Frazee. The first customers are expected to be activated by September 2024, with all of Frazee able to receive service by May 2025. This network expansion will combine Midco’s blazing fast speeds (up to 5 Gbps symmetrical) and low latency, with best-in-class customer satisfaction. 

“Midco covers more of the Midwest than ever before—and we’re continuing to expand! We look forward to contributing to the Frazee community, being part of its growth and bringing best-in-class internet and TV services to our customers,” said Midco Chief Operating Officer Ben Dold.