UNDATED – Golden West has started three projects to bring broadband internet access to nearly 700 homes and businesses in the Black Hills area thanks in part to funding from the State of South Dakota.
The projects will bring much-needed high-speed broadband internet to people east of Rapid City and south and east of Hill City. Upon completion, subscribers can select internet speed options from 250 Mbps to up to 1 Gbps, or 1 Gig.
“A fiber optic connection opens a whole host of opportunities for residents and businesses alike,” says Golden West CEO Denny Law. “It makes it easier to perform everyday activities online for things like education, business, healthcare, and entertainment.”
East Rapid City project to connect 400 locations
The project east of Rapid City runs along U.S. Highway 44 and extends from southwest of New Underwood to the east edge of Rapid Valley and south, with the small town of Caputa in the center. It will bring service to about 400 locations.
The state awarded Golden West $5.2 million for this project from the Connect SD broadband program. This supports about 70% of the project; Golden West will cover the remaining cost.
People in this project area who want internet service should complete the form at goldenwest.com/east-rapid to indicate interest and be kept informed. Those who preorder service should have a broadband connection by late 2024.
Hill City projects to connect 280 locations
The projects around Hill City extend south of town along S.D. Highway 385 and east along Highway 323, also known as the Old Hill City Road. See map for detailed coverage. These two projects will bring service to about 280 locations.
The state awarded Golden West $8.5 million for construction around Hill City from the Connect SD broadband program. This supports about 85% of the work; Golden West will cover the remaining cost.
People in this project area who want internet service should complete the form at goldenwest.com/hill-city to indicate interest and be kept informed. While some residents here who preorder service may have a broadband connection by late 2024, the projects around Hill City will run through 2025.
