Comcast Announces $26 Million Fiber Network Expansion in Tulare County

Comcast has unveiled plans for a significant expansion of its fiber-rich Xfinity network in Tulare County, California. The project, slated for completion by early 2026, will bring high-speed internet access to approximately 6,200 previously unserved locations across various communities in the county.

The expansion is made possible through a combination of a $26 million Federal Funding Account Grant from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and private funding from Comcast. This initiative is part of Comcast's ongoing commitment to invest in California's technology infrastructure, with over $4 billion already invested across the state in the past three years.

Communities set to benefit from this expansion include Alpaugh, Dinuba, Earlimart, Kingsburg, Pixley, Sultana, Traver, Tulare, Visalia, and Tipton. Residents and businesses in these areas will gain access to Comcast's next-generation network, built on DOCSIS 4.0 technology, which enables symmetrical, multi-gigabit Internet options with optimal upload and download speeds.

David Tashjian, Regional Senior Vice President of Comcast, emphasized the company's commitment to closing the digital divide in California. "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," Tashjian stated.

The expansion aligns with Comcast's broader initiative, Project UP, a $1 billion commitment to connect tens of millions of people to the Internet and build futures of unlimited possibilities. In California alone, Comcast has invested more than $130.5 million in cash and in-kind donations to nonprofits focused on digital skills development, expanding WiFi-connected Lift Zones, and funding connectivity and Internet adoption programs over the past three years.

Larry Micari, Chair of the Tulare County Board of Supervisors, welcomed the investment, stating, "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."

The expansion will also bring Comcast's full suite of products to residential customers, including Internet, video, mobile, voice, and managed home solutions. For local businesses, Comcast Business will offer a range of connectivity, communications, networking, cybersecurity, wireless, and managed solutions to support organizations of various sizes.

Comcast's network expansion in Tulare County is expected to have a significant impact on the local community, providing access to essential digital services and opportunities. The project underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing the digital divide and ensuring that rural and underserved areas have access to the same high-quality internet services as urban centers.

As the project progresses, it is anticipated to contribute to economic growth, educational opportunities, and improved quality of life for residents in the affected areas of Tulare County. The expansion of high-speed internet access is likely to attract new businesses, support remote work opportunities, and enhance access to online education and healthcare services in these communities.