Comcast is significantly expanding its broadband network in rural Fresno County, targeting over 160 previously unserved locations in Riverdale through a strategic infrastructure project expected to be completed by 2026. The expansion is supported by a $1 million Federal Funding Account grant from the California Public Utilities Commission and Comcast's private funding, representing part of the company's broader $4 billion technology investment across California. This initiative aims to enhance digital opportunities and literacy resources for students, individuals, and families in the region.
Beyond infrastructure development, Comcast demonstrated its commitment to the local community by gifting laptop computers to all eighth-grade students in Caruthers and contributing $10,000 to the Caruthers Unified Education Fund. Caruthers Unified School District Superintendent Orin Hirschkorn praised Comcast's holistic approach, highlighting the significance of not just providing technological infrastructure but also supporting educational needs. Fresno County Supervisor Buddy Mendes emphasized the potential economic benefits, noting that the investment could stimulate economic growth, support existing businesses, and improve residents' quality of life.
The new network promises multi-gigabit internet speeds with 99.9 percent reliability, offering residents access to Xfinity's comprehensive suite of services including internet, video, mobile, and home security. Through its Internet Essentials program, Comcast has already connected more than 2.2 million Californians to affordable high-speed internet. Comcast's broader commitment to California is evident in its substantial investments, including over $130.5 million in cash and in-kind donations to nonprofits focused on digital skills development and connectivity programs over the past three years.
This expansion matters because it addresses the critical digital divide in rural areas, where lack of reliable internet access can limit educational opportunities, economic development, and quality of life. The implications extend beyond immediate connectivity, potentially transforming local economies by enabling remote work, supporting small businesses, and improving access to essential services like telehealth and online education. The combination of infrastructure investment and community support creates a more sustainable model for digital inclusion, ensuring that residents not only gain access to technology but also develop the skills to use it effectively.
The project's completion by 2026 represents a significant step toward bridging California's digital divide, particularly in agricultural regions like Fresno County where reliable internet has historically been limited. The public-private partnership model, combining government funding with corporate investment, could serve as a template for similar initiatives in other underserved rural communities across the United States. As digital connectivity becomes increasingly essential for participation in modern society, this expansion ensures that rural residents won't be left behind in the transition to a more connected economy.
