$74M projects bring high-speed internet to underserved Californians

The California Public Utilities Commission has approved $74 million in funding to expand broadband infrastructure across the state. A significant portion of this initiative focuses on the Central Coast, with over $33 million dedicated to projects in Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Santa Clara, and Santa Cruz counties.

These funds support the Santa Barbara Fiber and Central Coast Fiber broadband projects. Surfnet Communications, Inc. will lead the installation, which aims to bring high-speed internet to 1,293 unserved locations. This expansion is part of a broader effort to improve communication infrastructure in rural and underserved areas.

Officials emphasized that reliable internet is necessary for safety and economic participation. Many of the selected project sites are located in high fire-threatened areas. Improved connectivity in these regions provides critical communication support during emergency situations and strengthens regional disaster response capabilities.

This investment aligns with the Broadband for All goals set by California authorities. By prioritizing areas that have historically lacked stable access, the state aims to close the digital divide. The project represents a direct commitment to providing rural residents with the same digital access as those in more populated urban centers.