The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has approved five grants totaling up to $96 million from the state’s last mile Federal Funding Account. The funding will support new broadband infrastructure projects in Calaveras, Orange, and Trinity Counties, as well as multi-county initiatives serving Humboldt and Los Angeles Counties. These efforts are expected to provide high-speed internet access to nearly 15,000 Californians and connect more than 4,500 previously unserved locations.
This latest round of grants builds on over $1 billion invested earlier in 2025 that improved connectivity for more than two million Californians. The CPUC plans to award at least one grant in each county by January 2026 and expects an additional $550 million for 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.”
Grant recipients include AT&T, AVX Networks, Comcast Cable Communications, and Hoopa Valley Public Utilities District. Their projects aim to deliver modern broadband speeds and affordable service options while supporting emergency communications, telehealth services, remote learning opportunities, and local economic growth.
“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 recipient organizations commented on the impact of these projects:
“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 of AT&T California
“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 of AVX Networks
“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 at Comcast
“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 healthy and thriving for all who depend on it” — Linnea Jackson General Manager Hoopa Valley Public Utilities District
The last mile Federal Funding Account was created under Senate Bill 156 with a goal of building broadband infrastructure in areas without reliable high-speed internet access. The program enables Californians—especially those living in rural or underserved regions—to participate fully in online services crucial during emergencies or within today’s economy.
For further details about current awards or program guidelines visit www.cpuc.ca.gov.
