Comcast has initiated a significant infrastructure project to extend its high-speed internet services to the Key Peninsula in Pierce County, Washington. This $5 million endeavor, a collaboration with Pierce County, leverages $3.75 million in federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA), underscoring a shared commitment to addressing broadband disparities in underserved regions. The project promises to deliver Comcast's advanced Xfinity network, offering residential customers multi-gig broadband speeds and business customers up to 100 Gbps, marking a pivotal step toward digital inclusivity.
Spanning from 144th St NW to Hall Rd NW and from 188th Ave NW to Wright Bliss Rd NW, the construction is set to continue until 2025, with initial service availability anticipated for some residents later this year. The initiative is expected to connect more than 500 homes and businesses to a next-generation network, facilitating access to new multi-gigabit internet options. Jen Tetatzin, director of Pierce County Planning and Public Works, highlighted the project's significance, noting broadband's role as essential infrastructure for community needs in business, education, and entertainment.
To ensure minimal disruption, Cannon Companies, the construction contractor, will provide residents with at least 10 days' notice for any temporary restrictions or road closures. Roy Novosel, vice president of engineering at Comcast Washington, emphasized the project's potential to spur economic growth and innovation by connecting Key Peninsula residents to the vast opportunities broadband offers. The expansion involves extending Comcast's network over 25 miles, a testament to the company's dedication to delivering reliable and fast broadband service to previously underserved areas.
This project is part of a larger initiative to enhance internet access across Pierce County, reflecting the critical importance of high-speed internet in today's digital-centric world. By bridging the digital divide, the expansion aims to foster equal opportunities for residents, enabling advancements in education, economic development, and healthcare through telemedicine. Comcast has established an online resource for locals to stay informed about the construction and the services that will become available, further supporting the community's transition to enhanced digital connectivity.
The Key Peninsula's broadband expansion is a clear indicator of the growing recognition of high-speed internet as a cornerstone of modern life. By ensuring rural and semi-rural areas like the Key Peninsula are not left behind, Comcast and Pierce County are setting a precedent for how public-private partnerships can effectively address the digital divide, ensuring all communities have the tools they need to thrive in the digital age.
