T-Mobile and KKR fiber joint venture (JV) Metronet has announced the acquisition of Minnetonka-based U.S. Internet (USI) this week.

The announcement confirms reports around a fortnight ago that T-Mobile had acquired USI, which operates a fiber network across Minneapolis and the surrounding suburbs in Minnesota.

T-Mobile didn't respond to DCD's request for comment at the time of the initial reports, after local media had reported that the deal was announced via a letter to USI customers, informing them that T-Mobile would be providing their fiber Internet services from September 2.

But this week, Metronet finally confirmed the deal, although it didn't disclose the financial terms.

USI operates a 100 percent fiber network, which is accessible to more than 140,000 homes and businesses in and around Minneapolis.

“USI is the premier independent fiber provider in Minneapolis with a tremendous reputation, and we are so proud that it is becoming part of the Metronet family,” said David Heimbach, CEO, Metronet. “Their coverage map complements Metronet’s own footprint in the greater Minneapolis area, creating a strong strategic fit as we continue to accelerate the expansion of our network.”

Metronet noted that the acquisition will enable the company to extend its footprint in Minnesota. The company already serves the nearby communities of Lakeville, Waconia, and Shakopee, plus cities farther south, including Owatonna, Faribault, and Rochester.

T-Mobile and KKR completed their JV acquisition of Metronet in July.

Metronet provides multi-gigabit Internet service in more than 300 communities across 19 states, with more communities added each month. To date, more than 2.6 million homes and businesses have access to Metronet fiber, which covers more than 42,000 miles. By 2030, the ISP is aiming to reach 6.5 million homes.