Comcast announced a significant expansion of its fiber broadband network in Northern California's Butte and Colusa counties, targeting over 705 previously unserved residential and commercial locations by 2026. The project, supported by an $8 million Federal Funding Account (FFA) Grant from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and private investment, aims to bridge the digital divide in these rural regions. The network expansion will specifically provide coverage to 260 locations in Colusa County and 445 locations in Butte County.
State Senator Megan Dahle emphasized the importance of this initiative, noting that it will open doors to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for local residents. Comcast's commitment extends beyond infrastructure development. The company has a history of digital inclusion efforts, including its Internet Essentials program, which has connected more than 2.2 million Californians since 2011. Over the past three years, Comcast has invested over $130 million in cash and in-kind donations to support digital skill-building and connectivity programs.
The new network promises multi-gigabit internet speeds with 99.9 percent reliability, offering residents and businesses in Butte and Colusa counties access to advanced digital services. Xfinity and Comcast Business will provide a comprehensive suite of services, including internet, video, mobile, voice, and home security options. Andy Pickett, Butte County's Chief Administrative Officer, welcomed the investment, highlighting the potential improvements in quality of life for residents, particularly those around the City of Oroville.
David Tashjian, Regional Senior Vice President of Comcast California, underscored the company's vision of ensuring digital access for all, regardless of location. By leveraging public-private partnerships, Comcast aims to create opportunities for individuals to thrive in an increasingly digital world. This expansion is part of Comcast's broader strategy to enhance digital connectivity in underserved California regions, with similar fiber network grants recently received for Tulare, Marin, Sutter, and Madera counties.
