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In today’s world, reliable internet is as essential as running water and electricity. It powers businesses, fuels economic growth and keeps families connected. Yet, behind every seamless fiber connection is an extraordinary construction team responsible for transforming ambitious ideas into tangible realities. 

Planning experts. 

The process starts long before a shovel hits the ground.

“We don’t just show up and start digging,” explained Will Butler, Midco General Manager of Central Construction. “There’s a lot of groundwork, both literal and figurative, that happens before the community even knows we’re there.” 

Butler and his team pour countless hours into planning, mapping and preparing. They collaborate with city officials to assess infrastructure needs, carefully evaluate routes, search for the best contractors and ensure every permit is in place. 

This preparation is necessary for smooth execution, but it’s the team’s attention to detail that sets them apart. 

“Our crews are community-minded,” said Butler. “They care about getting it right for the homeowners, for the business owners, for the city and for the neighborhoods we serve.” 

Champions of early communication. 

Once plans are in place, Midco’s teams shift their focus to preparing the community. 

“The door tags and mailers that we send out are key,” said Butler. “These include a direct 1-800 number that connects residents to the project coordinator, not a general line. It’s a quick way to address questions or concerns.” 

“Our project coordinators are the face of Midco in the community,” added Butler. “They answer calls, meet with community members and make sure people are heard.” 

This proactive communication means that by the time construction starts, homeowners and businesses know exactly what to expect. 

“When residents can talk to someone who knows the project, it creates peace of mind,” said Butler. “Once they envision the process from start to finish, they understand what we’re doing and why it’s valuable for their community.” 

“And the cities we work with appreciate our approach because it reduces their workload,” added Butler. “They’re not fielding calls, trying to figure out what’s happening and then having to contact us. We’re eliminating the middleman. That’s a win for everyone.” 

Your Construction Experience

Here's how we ensure a smooth process.

 

Partners in progress. 

While people are at the heart of Midco’s process, technology plays a crucial role in executing with precision and efficiency. 

“Our mapping software is phenomenal,” explained Butler. “We use GPS data to document our running lines, so we can access depth and location details with the click of a button.” 

This technology streamlines construction and provides transparency for city officials and reassurance to residents. 

“City mapping tools have been a game changer, too,” he added, “allowing us to integrate city data with our own to save time and improve accuracy.” 

Problem solvers in action. 

Construction rarely goes exactly as planned, but Butler’s team thrives on finding innovative solutions, and the team’s ability to anticipate challenges is critical. In tight right-of-ways, they explore alternative routes. In areas prone to bad weather, they build flexibility into their schedules. And when permitting delays arise, their strong relationships with city officials help resolve issues quickly. 

 Addressing homeowners’ and business owners’ concerns is another key part of the team’s role. 

Trusted builders. 

Success isn’t just measured by the miles of fiber installed – it’s about the relationships built along the way. 

"Building our reputation comes from backing up what we say and what we preach,” said Butler. “We’re extremely good at going into a community and delivering what we promise.” 

“City officials often have a 'wait-and-see' approach,’” said Butler, “but then they see Midco deliver on our promises. The cities come back saying, 'You did what you said you were going to do,' and you can see the weight lifted." 

In New Richmond, WI, for example, a community that had experienced challenges with previous service providers, Midco’s team turned skepticism into appreciation. 

“For community members, when your yard gets torn up year after year, there's frustration. So, when Midco came in as the new provider on the block, there was a lot of concern about our team doing exactly what happened to them in the past,” said Butler. 

“Cam, one of our coordinators, went above and beyond to address homeowners’ and business owners’ concerns,” explained Butler. “We received kudos from the city for his hands-on approach. He was there in person and knew what he was talking about, which made a huge difference in how the community viewed the project.” 

In the metro area west of the Twin Cities, a similar story unfolded. 

“At first, our coordinator was getting over 40 calls a day,” said Butler. “But as the project progressed and people saw the results, those calls dropped off. That’s the trust we aim to build.” 

Building stronger communities. 

Through every challenge, solution and success, Midco’s construction process is a testament to the power of collaboration. 

“We’re not just building networks,” said Butler. “We’re building the connections that make communities stronger.” 

By fostering strong partnerships, listening to community needs and leveraging innovative technology, we’re laying the groundwork for a brighter, more connected future.