RAPID CITY, S.D. — Midco announced Wednesday a $43 million investment to complete its multiyear Fiber Forward initiative in South Dakota, including more than $9.2 million earmarked for Rapid City-area network upgrades.
The company said the new investment will help expand next-generation fiber connectivity across the state from 2026 through 2028, bringing faster internet speeds and increased capacity to communities including Rapid City, Box Elder, Piedmont, Summerset and the greater Pennington County area.
Midco President and Chief Operating Officer Ben Dold said the company launched Fiber Forward in 2021 with a goal of bringing next-generation fiber connectivity to more than 300,000 homes and businesses statewide.
Under the next phase of the project, Midco said more than 35,000 homes and businesses in the Rapid City region will gain access to internet speeds of up to 4 gigabits per second download and 1 gigabit per second upload over the next three years.
Midco said fiber upgrades have already reached 100,000 homes and businesses in South Dakota, including 23,000 in Rapid City, Box Elder and surrounding communities. With the latest commitment, the company said its total Fiber Forward investment in South Dakota will exceed $160 million.
The company said the planned upgrades are designed to improve internet reliability and support growing demand for remote work, distance learning, telehealth and cloud-based applications. Midco also said the buildout will increase network capacity as Rapid City and the Black Hills region continue to grow.
State and local leaders praised the investment.
“Investments in high-speed broadband strengthen South Dakota’s economy by supporting business growth, innovation and quality of life,” Governor’s Office of Economic Development Commissioner Bill Even said in a statement. “Midco’s continued commitment ensures communities have the reliable infrastructure needed to compete and grow.”
Rapid City Mayor Jason Salamun said the next phase builds on five years of progress in the city.
“It’s another step forward in supporting our city’s growth and bright future,” Salamun said in a statement.
Midco Senior Vice President of Operations Steve Mattern said Rapid City remains a key market in the company’s regional vision.
“Rapid City is on a growth trajectory, and its technology needs are growing just as fast,” Mattern said in a statement. “This additional $9.2 million investment in a vibrant Rapid City area network reflects our commitment to supporting that momentum.”
Midco also highlighted its broader community involvement in South Dakota through foundation grants, nonprofit public service announcements, sponsorships and event support. The company said the Midco Foundation recently awarded $144,000 in nonprofit support, including 31 grants to South Dakota organizations.
The company said the upgraded fiber network is intended to support future multigigabit speeds and emerging technologies, including smart city applications and next-generation wireless services.
