Comcast has unveiled plans for a significant expansion of its advanced fiber-rich Xfinity network in Tulare County, California. The project, set to be completed by early 2026, will extend high-speed internet access to about 6,200 previously unserved locations across various areas including Alpaugh, Dinuba, Earlimart, Kingsburg, Pixley, Sultana, Traver, Tulare, Visalia, and Tipton. This expansion is made possible through a combination of a $26 million Federal Funding Account Grant from the California Public Utilities Commission and private investment from Comcast. It builds upon Comcast's substantial commitment to California, adding to over $4 billion in technology and infrastructure investments made across the state in the past three years.
The new network infrastructure will leverage DOCSIS 4.0 technology, enabling symmetrical, multi-gigabit internet options. This advanced technology promises to deliver optimal upload and download speeds, significantly enhancing the online experience for residents and businesses in these communities. David Tashjian, Regional Senior Vice President of Comcast, emphasized the company's commitment to closing the digital divide in California. He stated that this expansion, in partnership with the California Public Utilities Commission, will bring reliable, high-speed internet access to several communities across Tulare County, ensuring that no one is left behind regardless of economic status or location.
The importance of this expansion was underscored by Larry Micari, Chair of the Tulare County Board of Supervisors, who noted that high-speed, reliable internet is no longer a luxury but a necessity. This investment is expected to provide more than 6,200 previously unserved homes and businesses with accessible and affordable internet connections, supporting families, students, and local economic growth. Comcast's commitment extends beyond infrastructure development. Through its Project UP initiative, the company has pledged $1 billion to help tens of millions of people connect to the internet and build futures with unlimited possibilities.
In California alone, Comcast has invested over $130.5 million in cash and in-kind donations to nonprofits focused on digital skills development, expanding WiFi-connected Lift Zones, and funding connectivity and internet adoption programs over the past three years. The company also continues to support affordable connectivity services like Internet Essentials, which offers eligible households high-speed internet for as low as $9.95 per month. Since its inception in 2011, this program has connected more than 2.2 million Californians to the internet.
Residential customers in the newly served areas will have access to Comcast's full suite of Xfinity products, including internet, video, mobile, voice, and managed home solutions. For local businesses, Comcast Business will offer a comprehensive range of connectivity, communications, networking, cybersecurity, wireless, and managed solutions to support organizations of various sizes. The expansion of Comcast's network in Tulare County represents a significant step towards bridging the digital divide in California. By providing high-speed internet access to thousands of previously unserved locations, this initiative has the potential to transform educational opportunities, enhance economic prospects, and improve quality of life for residents across the region.
