News and Events

Multi-year effort overcomes archaeological and permitting challenges to connect remaining Yankton-area homes 

October 29, 2026 – Yankton, SD: Midco has completed a complex, multi-year fiber expansion near Lewis and Clark Recreation Area, overcoming archaeological and permitting challenges to bring fiber internet service to the final homes included in a broader Yankton-area network expansion project. 

The completed project represents more than $5.4 million in network improvements serving approximately 658 addresses, expanding access to reliable, high-speed broadband throughout the Yankton area. The final phase of the project connected 12 homes after a two-year effort to complete the remaining construction route while protecting archaeological resources in the area. 

Rather than leave those residents behind, Midco worked with the Governor’s Office of Economic Development, South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, the South Dakota Division of Parks and Recreation, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and archaeological experts to identify a construction approach that protected archaeological resources while allowing the project to move forward. Midco also invested approximately $87,000 in an archaeological study to support the effort. 

While the final route required nearly two years of coordination, review and planning, construction of the remaining segment was completed in approximately one month once approvals were secured. 

“Every customer matters, including those in places that are more complicated to reach,” said Midco President and COO Ben Dold. “This expansion reflects our commitment to investing in the Yankton region and ensuring residents have access to the connectivity they need. The final phase required patience, additional investment and close coordination with several partners, but Midco remained committed to finding a responsible path forward. We are proud to bring fiber connectivity to these residents while respecting and protecting the archaeological resources along the route.” 

The agreement supporting the project was signed in May 2023, and construction began in April 2024. The final phase required balancing the need for modern communications infrastructure with the importance of preserving archaeological and cultural resources in the area. 

The completed expansion gives residents access to Midco Fiber, providing the bandwidth and reliability needed to support remote work, online learning, telehealth, streaming, gaming and the growing number of connected devices used in today’s households. Residents in the final phase of the project previously relied primarily on fixed wireless and aging DSL internet service. 

“This project involved a relatively small number of locations, but the people living in these homes deserve access to modern broadband connectivity,” said Midco Vice President of Field Engineering and Construction Cole Mack. “We appreciate the residents’ patience and the collaboration of the many organizations that helped us complete this project responsibly.” 

“Reliable broadband infrastructure is essential for attracting residents, supporting local businesses and maintaining quality of life across the Yankton region,” said Nancy Wenande, Yankton Thrive CEO. “We’re impressed and grateful for Midco’s commitment to finding a solution that ensured these residents weren’t left behind despite the project’s unique challenges.” 

The completion of the project demonstrates Midco’s commitment to extending advanced connectivity throughout the region, including areas where construction becomes more difficult, time-consuming and costly. By investing in both large-scale network improvements and challenging final-mile connections, Midco continues to support the connectivity needs of residents, businesses and communities across the Yankton area. 

Residents and businesses in the newly connected service area can learn more about Midco Fiber and check service availability at Midco.com or by speaking with a Midco representative at 1-800-888-1300.