News and Events

Midco® Awarded Wisconsin Broadband Grant

Pierce County, WI – Through a partnership with the Wisconsin Public Service Commission, Midco is bringing high speed broadband to unserved areas in rural Pierce County. The Wisconsin Broadband Office recently announced its latest round of broadband expansion grants, and Midco was chosen as a recipient.

“Access to reliable broadband is vital, as the current environment has highlighted. As families continue to utilize connectivity for school, work, health care and more, Midco is proud to be expanding our network to address their needs,” said Andrew Curley, Midco’s Director of Government Relations. “As we continue our goal of bringing our services to more of our rural friends and neighbors, we’re grateful for the opportunity to partner with the State of Wisconsin.”

Midco was awarded $83,169 to expand its network to serve an additional 54 homes and businesses west of the Village of Ellsworth.

“Increasing access to high-speed, reliable broadband for residents in and around the Village of Ellsworth is vitally important,” said Ellsworth Board President Becky Beissel. “This investment by Midco and the State of Wisconsin is crucial as the pandemic continues to impact education, the economy, healthcare, and so much more. I am excited to see this project approved and look forward to its completion this year.”

“I want to thank Midco for helping ensure the connectivity needs of rural Pierce County are being met,” said Wisconsin State Representative Warren Petryk. “COVID-19 has shown the importance of high-speed internet access, which is why I was happy to support this project and am grateful to see Midco was awarded this grant.” 

Construction of this extension to Midco’s existing network is slated to begin later this spring. By the end of 2021, services will be available to new customers.

In addition to this expansion, Midco is upgrading all of its Ellsworth service territory to Midco Gig. Midco Gig offers 1000 Mbps download speeds – some of the fastest speeds currently available in Wisconsin. This upgrade will impact both the new service area and existing customers. The project is expected to be completed this year. Midco customers can expect to receive notice when the enhanced speeds are available.