The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) approved a total of $207 million from two broadband grant programs yesterday. Three-quarters of the awards — $157 million — was in the eighth round of grants for last-mile broadband projects as part of the $2 billion Last Mile Federal Funding Account grant program.
The program is designed to expand broadband internet access for underserved and unserved communities across the state.
The other quarter of the funding — a contingent $50 million grant from the Broadband Loan Loss Reserve Fund — went to the Golden State Connect Authority to help expand access to reliable, affordable, high-speed broadband for rural state residents.
Many Last Mile Federal Funding Account grants are awarded to entities creating new networks, connecting the next generation to education, improving access to healthcare, and empowering rural and urban communities for economic development and emergency connectivity.
To date, $829 million has been awarded for California broadband projects in 35 counties.
This latest round of Last Mile Federal Funding Account awards went to:
- Five broadband projects (a total of $61 million) in Amador and Solano Counties, benefiting approximately 10,000 Californians.
- Three broadband projects (a total of $96 million) in Los Angeles County, benefiting approximately 1.2 million Californians.
“As we approach the end of the year, today’s approval underscores our historic commitment to digital equity through the Broadband for All initiative,” CPUC President Alice Reynolds said in the announcement.
“These vital investments bring us closer to fulfilling the promise of reliable, high-speed internet for every Californian, particularly in underserved and unserved areas. The grants we are awarding are fostering a future where equitable access enhances education, healthcare, economic development, and emergency connectivity for communities across our state.”
California has recently announced other major rounds of broadband grants, including $237 million first announced in August and $91 million approved in September.
Additional information about California broadband grants, including links to state funding resources, state specific Telecompetitor coverage and more, can be found on the Broadband Nation webpage for the state.
