Comcast announced a significant expansion of its fiber-rich Xfinity network in Tulare County, California. The project will bring advanced broadband services to approximately 6,200 previously unserved locations across Alpaugh, Dinuba, Earlimart, Kingsburg, Pixley, Sultana, Traver, Tulare, Visalia, and Tipton. Expected to be completed by early 2026, this initiative underscores Comcast's commitment to bridging the digital divide and providing reliable, high-speed Internet access to underserved communities.
The expansion is made possible by a $26 million Federal Funding Account Grant from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), supplemented by private funding from Comcast. This investment marks a continuation of Comcast's substantial financial commitments to technology and infrastructure, which have exceeded $4 billion in California over the last three years.
The upgraded network will utilize DOCSIS 4.0 technology, enabling symmetrical multi-gigabit Internet options that optimize both upload and download speeds. David Tashjian, Regional Senior Vice President of Comcast, highlighted the company's dedication to public-private partnerships, stating, "By continuing to invest in public-private partnerships such as this, Comcast will bring its best-in-class broadband services to previously unserved locations and help ensure that no one is left behind, no matter their economic status or where they live."
Larry Micari, Chair of the Tulare County Board of Supervisors, emphasized the transformative impact of this investment, noting that "High-speed, reliable Internet is no longer a luxury. This investment will provide more than 6,200 previously unserved homes and businesses in our communities with an accessible and affordable Internet connection to help families succeed, students thrive in school, businesses drive economic growth, and foster greater innovation throughout the region."
Beyond infrastructure, Comcast is also committed to enhancing digital opportunities through Project UP, a $1 billion initiative aimed at helping millions connect to the Internet and build futures of unlimited possibilities. Over the past three years, Comcast has invested over $130.5 million in California nonprofits focused on digital skills, WiFi-connected Lift Zones, and connectivity and Internet adoption programs.
Additionally, Comcast supports affordable connectivity services like Internet Essentials, which offers high-speed Internet for $9.95/month or Internet Essentials Plus for $29.95/month to eligible households. Since its inception in 2011, the program has connected more than 2.2 million Californians.
Residential customers will benefit from Xfinity's full suite of products, including Internet, video, mobile, voice, and managed home solutions. Local businesses will have access to Comcast Business's comprehensive suite of connectivity, communications, networking, cybersecurity, wireless, and managed solutions. Comcast Business has been consistently recognized as a leader and innovator, and one of the fastest-growing providers of Ethernet services.
This expansion is not just about faster Internet; it represents a crucial step towards digital equity and economic growth in Tulare County. With enhanced capacity, faster speeds, unprecedented coverage, and reliable connections, Comcast's network is poised to power homes and businesses well into the future.
