MTA Service Drop Installation Announcement for 2025

MTA is pleased to announce that Sturgeon Electric will be handling the installation of service drops in 2025. The service drop season is expected to begin in the second week of May, and the project will continue throughout the summer.

What is a Service Drop?

For those unfamiliar, a service drop is the installation of a permanent underground service line (either copper or fiber) that runs from an MTA pedestal to your Network Interface Device (NID), which is typically located at your house or building. The installation of the service drop ensures reliable, high-speed service and connectivity to the MTA network.

• Plowing Method: In most cases, a plow will be used to bury the service line. However, if the terrain is difficult or rocky, a mini excavator may be employed to ensure proper installation.

Installation Route

The route for the service line will usually follow the straightest path from the MTA pedestal to the NID on your property. While this is the general approach, the drop crew will determine the final placement and installation path based on various factors, such as terrain and property layout. The crew has the final say on how the line is plowed. Please make sure there are no vehicles in front of the NID on the house. Please advise MTA of any locked gates we may encounter. Please make sure your animals are put away before the drop crew shows up to plow. We may be able to accommodate an alternate path if you contact MTA ahead of time.

Depth and Utility Locates

• The service drop will be buried to a typical depth of 6 to 18 inches. However, please be aware that MTA cannot guarantee a specific depth due to variations in soil conditions and the need to avoid obstructions.
• To ensure safety during the digging process, MTA will call in locates through 811 several days in advance to mark public utilities like electric, gas, GCI, and MTA lines. These marks will indicate the location of existing underground utilities to prevent accidental damage.

Important Note on Private Utilities:

• Private utilities (such as electric lines on the customer side of a remote meter base, power or gas to outbuildings, electric dog fences, underground sprinklers, French drains, well wires, fuel lines, or any other buried infrastructure owned by the property owner) are not included in the locate service. It is the responsibility of the property owner to ensure these are clearly marked before work begins.
• If you are unsure of any private utilities, we strongly recommend checking and marking them ahead of time to avoid any disruption or damage.

Members should ensure that private lines or features are clearly marked to prevent damage or delays.

Sensitive Areas and Private Features

If there are any sensitive areas (such as pet cemeteries, special trees, landscaped gardens, or other features) that you would like the crew to avoid, it is your responsibility to notify MTA in advance. We will make every effort to avoid these areas; however, advance notification is crucial to help us plan the best route and avoid damaging valuable or sentimental parts of your property.

• Important Reminder: Any unmarked or overlooked private features or utilities are the responsibility of the homeowner, and MTA cannot be held accountable for any damage caused by the installation.

Take time to consider any areas or features that may need special attention, especially if they are important to you.

Responsibility for Damage

MTA and Sturgeon Electric are not responsible for any damage to unmarked or unknown buried facilities, such as private utilities or personal structures. If there are any unknown utilities buried on your property, it is essential to mark or inform MTA about them before the installation begins. This will help us avoid any unexpected disruptions or damages.

Make sure to communicate clearly about any special installations or concerns to avoid misunderstandings.

Notice and Priority for Service-Affected Members

MTA will provide approximately two weeks’ notice before beginning the plowing work at your location. You will receive a notification that includes the expected start date and any other relevant details. Priority will be given to service-affecting members, so if your service is currently interrupted or if there are issues affecting your connectivity, your installation will be scheduled sooner.

• Advance Notice: This gives you the chance to prepare your property for the service drop installation.
• Service-Affected Members: If your current service is down or you are in need of an immediate connection, MTA will prioritize your installation to minimize downtime.

During Installation: What to Expect

• Earth Disturbance: The installation process involves the burial of the service line, which will disturb the earth along the plow path. Rocks and debris may surface as part of the process.
• Visible Evidence: Once the installation is complete, you will likely see evidence of the plow’s path, which may include visible grooves, disturbed soil, or other traces of the plowing equipment. While the crew will do their best to minimize disruption, this is an inherent part of the installation. The crews do have grass seed and can apply if necessary.

Types of plows used for placing a drop:

Post-Installation: Final Steps

After the installation is complete, MTA will conduct a final inspection to ensure everything is functioning as intended. Thank you for your understanding as we work together to enhance the connectivity and services in your area. MTA remains committed to providing reliable, high-speed internet and communication services, and we look forward to continuing to serve your needs.

What could be seen after a drop placement: