High-Speed Internet is Coming

Here’s what to expect from our upcoming Fiber Projects.

What is Fiber Internet?

Fiber is a technology that uses a new fiber-optic cable, connected directly to your location rather than a copper cable, to deliver ultra-fast internet, TV, and telephone service.

When can I expect fiber internet to be available near me?

We’ve been rolling out fiber projects to towns and neighborhoods all across the Red River Valley—and more are on the horizon! Check your address below to see what’s available now and register for services.

Check Service Availability

Why choose Red River Fiber?

High-speed internet is essential to our community

Unmatched Performance

The most reliable and consistent internet with the same upload and download speeds.

Unlimited Data

No data caps and no hidden fees, plus unlimited data!

Future-Proof

Red River delivers speeds up to 10 Gbps.

Hometown Provider

We are your local hometown provider with 24/7 support.

Whole Home Wi-Fi Coverage

Wall-to-wall coverage with increased security and peace of mind with the Red River Connect Wi-Fi App.

Increased Home Value

According to a study by the Fiber Broadband Association, fiber will increase a typical home’s value by an average of 3.1%.

Get the latest updates on our current projects

Here’s what’s going on in your neck of the woods.

Fiber Construction Projects

Building a Fiber Network: Construction Information

Wondering what to expect during the construction of our fiber network?

We are here to keep you informed throughout the entire fiber construction process!

Building a fiber-optic network is a complex, multi-stage endeavor that involves several key steps: planning, equipment procurement, scheduling contractors, coordinating with homeowners, acquiring easements, splicing, cabling, and other essential procedures before we can arrange installation at your property.

This process involves multiple contractors and can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months to complete, depending on factors such as circuit length, terrain, soil conditions, weather, and other external influences. We work diligently and efficiently to deliver the fiber-optic experience you are looking forward to.

Read on to learn more about each step of the fiber construction process.

Phase 1: Planning

The first step in bringing fiber internet to your area is designing the network.

Successful fiber construction begins with detailed planning, site surveys, environmental reviews, network design, and acquiring necessary permits. Once complete, we work with an engineering firm to create detailed construction plans mapping the conduit and fiber routes.

Phase 2: Sign-up & Pre-wire

Next, future customers select the fiber-powered services for their home or business.

Our sales team contacts residents and businesses about signing up for services. Once you have selected your broadband package and additional services, you must complete a site drop mermit to allow us access to your property. After both items are complete, it is on to your pre-wire appointment.

A technician will visit your home to install equipment and prepare your home for service installation. This appointment typically takes around two hours to complete.

Phase 3: Construction

The construction of the fiber network, often referred to as the “heavy lifting,” occurs during multiple phases. This construction process typically takes between two and four months to complete. However, it may face delays due to bad weather, permitting issues, and other factors. We appreciate your patience and assure you that you’ll love the final result!

Construction officially begins when you start seeing heavy machinery in your area! A boring machine pierces the ground soil at a low angle to make a path for the fiber-optic cabling to be buried, with minimal disturbance to the surface area above. When the bore path is complete, the conduit (which houses the fiber-optic cabling) is pulled back through the hole. Typically, the fiber bore path is along public rights of way.

After completing the mainline, our crews will extend the fiber cable to each property within the fiber build area. Once the fiber drops are complete, our crew will work to restore any mild lawn disturbances by smoothing out the soil and adding grass seed.

When the fiber drops are in place, each fiber end is spliced (“fused”) together from the home to a vault and then to a node for continuous connection on Red River’s fiber network. The connection allows your home to receive Red River fiber services. We then test the connection to ensure that it is functioning correctly. At this point, the fiber-optic cable is “lit” and ready for connection.

Phase 4: Installation

Once the construction phase is complete, we will contact you to schedule the installation of your fiber services. A friendly Red River technician will equip your home or business with state-of-the-art equipment and walk you through the use of your new services.

Stages of Fiber Construction

Fiber Projects FAQ

Red River Communications’ construction team and our contractors are currently installing cutting-edge fiber-optic internet in your neighborhood! Throughout the construction phase, we will make every effort to minimize disruptions.

Our construction crews will be working during daylight hours to install underground fiber cables and access vaults in the utility easement. This work will involve digging access holes and using directional underground boring to install the fiber-optic cables. There may be painted lines and small flags in the grass to indicate utilities. Please refrain from removing the flags!

Our crews will ensure that all properties are reinstated to their original state, including planting grass where necessary. We understand your patience and cooperation and assure you that the final result will be worth it!

Utility location flags will be in place until construction is completed on your street, then they will be removed by our crews. Please do not remove the flags or markings! It is state law that they remain in place during construction.

Our conduit is buried 36″ in the right-of-way near the street. After you place an order for our service, an additional fiber-optic cable is installed between the street and your house, between 6” and 12” deep.

The duration of construction depends on the layout and design of your neighborhood. Our goal is to complete the process as quickly as possible.

They work daylight hours, usually between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.

Your driveway will remain undisturbed during construction. We will bore underneath the pavement and ground to prevent any damage. Any small areas requiring digging will be restored to their original state.

Customer support

If you’re having trouble with your services, our customer experience team is always happy to assist you. Also, we have created helpful online resources and step-by-step user guides that you can access here at any time.

Online Resources