STEP 1: DESIGN & ENGINEERING

Before we can break ground in an area, we must first assess the system in place.  It is important to determine the specific design needs of each area.  The good news is if you have received our mailer indicating we are starting the fiber build, this step has been completed.

STEP 2: GETTING READY FOR CONSTRUCTION

Before we can lay the fiber in the ground or bring in construction equipment, we must figure out where the existing underground utilities are—wires, pipes, water lines, and so on. We follow the required process for marking the locations (“locates”) where each utility is supposed to be. This helps our construction crews when they are digging. You might see orange, blue, red, or yellow paint on sidewalks, streets, or even on your grass.  Those are locating marks.  At this time, we also ask you to complete an interest in service questionnaire located at www.lakeland.ws/address-search/  or call 715-825-2171.

During this step, the Lakeland engineering team is also securing the necessary highway, DOT, county, village/township, and environmental permits needed for construction purposes.

In addition to locates and permits we may have to seek private property access rights in some instances. Being an eligible telecommunications carrier Lakeland has permission by the state of Wisconsin to build our network in public rights-of-ways and easements in a particular jurisdiction. Where applicable, we must separately secure the rights to construct on private property, such as in a multi-family apartment building, in a gated community, or across a private road.

STEP 3: CONSTRUCTION

During main construction, crews will be utilizing machinery such as trenchers, plows, backhoes, and boring machines to install “innerduct” along the construction route.  The orange innerduct helps protect the fiber optic cable from potentially harmful environmental variables.  Once the innerduct is in place, the crews can push, pull, or blow fiber in the innerduct.  Remember that the construction work is disruptive.  Lakeland and its trusted contractors attempt to minimize disruptions during the construction process.

During the construction process, there will be ground that is disturbed along the route.  The construction crews will be back to restore the ground.  If you have a concern regarding the cleanup, please don’t hesitate to email Lakeland at info@lakelandteam.com or call us at 715-825-2171.

STEP 4: APPLY FOR SERVICE

When the construction process has been completed, we will begin taking applications for service in your neighborhood. Once your application has been submitted a customer service representative will reach out to you with more information regarding the next steps in your installation process.