Comcast has unveiled plans for a significant expansion of its fiber broadband network in Northern California, targeting previously underserved areas in Marin and Sutter counties. The telecommunications giant aims to bring its next-generation network to over 150 locations in Marin County and more than 450 locations in Sutter County by mid-2026, marking a substantial increase in high-speed internet access for these regions.
This expansion initiative is made possible through a combination of a $14 million Federal Funding Account (FFA) Grant from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and private investment from Comcast. The move is part of a broader effort to address the digital divide in California, with Comcast recently securing an additional $26 million FFA grant to expand services in Tulare County, set to benefit nearly 6,200 unserved locations by early 2026.
David Tashjian, Regional Senior Vice President of Comcast California, emphasized the critical nature of reliable, high-speed internet in today’s digital economy. He stated, ‘This continued investment of funds from the California Public Utilities Commission will allow us to expand into unserved communities throughout Marin and Sutter Counties, which will provide residents and businesses with a future of unlimited possibilities.’
Local officials have welcomed the announcement, recognizing the potential impact on their communities. Mat Conant, Chair of the Sutter County Board of Supervisors, highlighted the importance of this expansion for families and small business owners who have previously lacked access to high-speed internet. Similarly, Eric Lucan of the Marin County Board of Supervisors noted the particular significance for the senior community and residents of mobile home communities in Novato.
Comcast’s commitment extends beyond network expansion, encompassing broader digital equity initiatives. Through its Project UP, the company has pledged $1 billion to help connect millions to the internet and create opportunities for digital skill development. In California alone, Comcast has invested over $130 million in cash and in-kind donations to nonprofits focused on digital skills, expanding WiFi-connected Lift Zones, and supporting connectivity and internet adoption programs.
The expansion will bring Comcast’s full suite of products to residential customers, including internet, video, mobile, voice, and managed home solutions. For businesses, Comcast Business will offer a comprehensive range of connectivity, communications, networking, cybersecurity, wireless, and managed solutions to support organizations of various sizes.
Comcast’s network capabilities are designed to meet the growing demands of modern digital life. The company’s latest Xfinity gateways offer advanced WiFi technology capable of handling three times more bandwidth to support simultaneous streaming, gaming, and videoconferencing. Nearly a third of Xfinity Internet customers already subscribe to gigabit speed products, with plans to roll out even faster symmetrical gigabit speeds across the country in the coming years.
The expansion also addresses reliability concerns, with innovations like Storm-Ready WiFi, a device that provides cellular and battery backup to maintain connectivity during power outages. This focus on reliability, combined with ultra-low latency and extensive coverage, positions Comcast to meet the evolving needs of both residential and business customers in Northern California.
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, Comcast’s expansion in Northern California represents a significant step towards ensuring that previously underserved communities can fully participate in the digital economy. This initiative not only promises to enhance educational and economic opportunities for residents but also strengthens the region’s overall digital infrastructure, potentially attracting new businesses and fostering innovation in these communities.
This news story relied on a press release distributed by News Direct. Blockchain Registration, Verification & Enhancement provided by NewsRamp™. The source URL for this press release is Comcast to Bring High-Speed Fiber Broadband to Underserved Areas in Northern California.