Comcast has 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. This initiative, supported by an $8 million Federal Funding Account (FFA) Grant from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and private investment, is set to bridge the digital divide in these rural regions, providing coverage to 260 locations in Colusa County and 445 locations in Butte County.
State Senator Megan Dahle highlighted the transformative potential of this project, emphasizing its role in unlocking access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for local residents. The expansion is part of Comcast's broader commitment to digital inclusion, exemplified by 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 will offer multi-gigabit internet speeds with 99.9 percent reliability, enabling residents and businesses in Butte and Colusa counties to access 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, praised the investment for its potential to significantly improve the quality of life for residents, particularly those around the City of Oroville.
David Tashjian, Regional Senior Vice President of Comcast California, reiterated the company's vision of ensuring digital access for all, regardless of location. By leveraging public-private partnerships, Comcast aims to foster opportunities for individuals to thrive in an increasingly digital world. This expansion is a key component of Comcast's strategy to enhance digital connectivity in underserved California regions, following similar fiber network grants recently received for Tulare, Marin, Sutter, and Madera counties.
