Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Internet service providers have obtained the necessary permits to build out their networks. Just like other utility companies, these companies have the right to access the city’s right-of-way, which extends across streets from sidewalk to sidewalk, and easement areas, typically located along the street, the sidewalk, the rear lot line, or between two lots. Right-of-way Figure (PDF) Utility companies use the ROW and easements to construct and maintain overhead and underground lines. Contracting crews have legal access to these areas to install their fiber cables, in addition to equipment such as boxes buried at ground level, typically placing them in a central location utilized by multiple utility providers. If your ROW and/or easement is within a fenced area of your property, crews will need access to this area as well. 

Crews do their best to minimize the impact to property; however, technicians do need to either hang fiberoptic cables on utility poles or run them underground in order to extend service to subscribing residents. To report any damage occurring during construction of fiber optic networks, reach out the companies directly at: 

• MidCo: 888-425-1475
• Metronet: 877-386-3876
• Mediacom: 800-790-8187

Please do not remove the flags. Companies are legally required to have utilities locate their underground transmission line, such as gas, water, and electric lines prior to construction. The flags show where the existing utilities are, helping crews avoid these areas. Once these colorful flags or temporary landscape-safe spray paint appear in your yard, or along the street, construction should begin within a couple of weeks. Once construction is complete, the flags will be removed. Weather permitting, crews will rake, seed, and straw your lawn in the areas where digging occurred.

It is important to notify companies of these items. You may report these items to the companies directly at: 

• MidCo: 888-425-1475
• Metronet: 877-386-3876
• Mediacom: 800-790-8187

Metronet, MidCo and other providers are creating a fiber network throughout Shorewood, so people who want to sign up for service may do so. The goal is to make it as widely accessible as possible. There is no requirement for any home sign up for service.

Workers may be in your yard from 30 minutes up to one day. If other utilities are overhead, crews will install the fiber optic cables on existing poles. If utilities are underground, they will bury the network in those same areas. Before doing underground work, internet service provider companies (Metronet, MidCo) will have other utility companies locate their transmission lines and will temporarily move any obstacles within the utility easement. 

Utility easements are located on most properties in addition to the city's right-of-way (ROW) and are designated by city ordinance to be accessible to utilities, such as gas, water, electric, and cable providers. Fiber-optic networks will be located in these utility easements and/or city ROW. Right-of-way (PDF)

Each internet service providers has varying lengths of time in which residents may connect after fiber-optic networks are installed. To find out more information on connection availability and wait time, contact them directly at:

• MidCo: 888-425-1475
• Metronet: 877-386-3876 
• Mediacom: 800-790-8187