The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has approved five grants totaling up to $96 million from the state’s last mile Federal Funding Account. These funds will be used for broadband infrastructure projects that aim to provide high-speed internet access to nearly 15,000 Californians and connect more than 4,500 previously unserved locations.
The grants target Calaveras, Orange, and Trinity Counties, with two multi-county projects extending coverage into Humboldt and Los Angeles Counties. The initiative is part of ongoing efforts to address connectivity gaps in rural, Tribal, and underserved communities.
This latest round of funding builds on more than $1 billion invested earlier in 2025 to improve internet access for over 2 million Californians. The CPUC plans to award additional grants across every county by January 2026 and expects to allocate another $550 million to the Last Mile program in the 2027–2028 state budget.
“These investments move us closer to a future where every Californian can count on fast, affordable internet no matter where they live,” said CPUC President Alice Reynolds. “Reliable broadband is essential for education, healthcare, public safety, and economic opportunity, and today’s action continues California’s strong commitment to Broadband For All.”
Recipients of the new grants include AT&T, AVX Networks, Comcast Cable Communications, and Hoopa Valley Public Utilities District. Their projects are designed to bring modern broadband speeds and affordable service options:
– More than 4,500 locations currently lacking reliable service will gain access.
– About 15,000 residents—including households and small businesses—are expected to benefit.
– The upgrades will support emergency communications, telehealth services, remote learning opportunities, and local economic development.
“These Federal Funding Account grants are an important step towards closing the digital divide for some of the most remote parts of the state, including rural, Tribal, and low-income areas,” said Commissioner Darcie L. Houck. “The benefits of these projects for work, education, public safety, and daily life will be substantial.”
Representatives from grant recipient organizations commented on how the funding will affect their communities:
AT&T California (Orange County)
“We are pleased to be selected for this important project to deliver reliable, high-speed broadband connectivity to Orange County. We agree that California communities, both large and small, deserve this kind of fiber connectivity and investment, and we’re excited to continue to work with communities across the Golden State to make that happen.”
— Susan Santana, President
AVX Networks (Orange and Los Angeles Counties)
“AVX Networks is thrilled to bridge the digital divide for Catalina Island and coastal North Orange County through this vital Last-Mile Federal Funding Account grant, enhancing connectivity that will transform healthcare, education, hospitality, public safety, and emergency communications like 911. This investment not only resolves persistent downtime issues but empowers mobile carriers to prioritize coverage over capacity, fostering equitable access and resilience for these underserved communities.”
— Lance Ware, CEO
Comcast Cable Communications (Calaveras County)
“The CPUC’s decision to award Comcast the Calaveras County FFA grant reinforces our commitment to closing the digital divide across Northern California. This project will accelerate our network expansion in communities in the High Sierra. We appreciate the CPUC’s partnership as we work together to advance digital equity and connect more people and businesses to what matters most.”
— Rodrigo Lopez, Regional Senior Vice President
Hoopa Valley Public Utilities District (Trinity and Humboldt Counties)
“Receiving this funding for the Hoopa TRAIL project is an immense honor for the Hoopa Valley Public Utilities District and a monumental step for the communities we will serve across Trinity and Humboldt Counties, empowering us to deliver reliable broadband that brings critical connectivity, economic opportunity,and reflects the Hoopa Valley Tribe’s deep pride in serving the region. The Tribe calls Hoopa the place where all trails return,and now just as all Trinity River tributaries flow home so too will the digital river which we will ensure remains healthyand thriving for all who depend on it.”
— Linnea Jackson , General Manager
The Last Mile Federal Funding Account was created under Senate Bill 156 with a goal of building broadband infrastructure in areas lacking reliable high-speed internet access. The program aims at enabling Californians’ participation in online services such as education or healthcare while ensuring they stay connected during emergencies.
For further information about approved awards or program details visit:
Full list of approved Last-Mile Federal Funding Account Awards
Last Mile Federal Funding Account Webpage
Interactive Broadband Awards Map
The CPUC oversees utilities within California with responsibilities that include consumer protection,safeguarding environmental interests,and ensuring safe,reliable utility infrastructure statewide.More details can be found at www.cpuc.ca.gov.
