Staff from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) recently joined Cruzio Internet in Santa Cruz to celebrate the completion of the Equal Access Summits to the Sea project. The initiative aims to provide reliable, high-speed internet to communities along California’s Central Coast that have lacked consistent connectivity.
The project was made possible through funding from the California Advanced Services Fund (CASF) Broadband Infrastructure Grant Account. Earlier this year, CASF approved $5.65 million for Cruzio to build a hybrid, fiber-powered fixed wireless network. This infrastructure will connect hundreds of homes across challenging terrain spanning San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, and Monterey Counties.
For many residents in these areas, lack of reliable internet has posed significant challenges. Students have struggled with online learning, seniors have faced barriers to virtual healthcare visits, and small businesses have lost sales due to unreliable service.
Cruzio Internet, a local provider serving Santa Cruz County for over 30 years, worked with CPUC staff to secure CASF funding. According to James Hackett, Chief Operating Officer at Cruzio:
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Maria Ellis, Director of Broadband Initiatives at CPUC, explained the program and its eligibility:
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The new network is designed to deliver faster home internet speeds than previously available in these regions. It includes a major backbone connection known as a middle-mile network that can also be used by other providers. Dozens of new wireless hubs are being installed as strategic connection points for more homes. The project specifically targets hard-to-reach and fire-prone areas where rough terrain or past disasters have made service difficult.
The completed network is expected to bring gigabit-capable speeds to families without current broadband options and improve communication during emergencies such as wildfires and storms. Other providers will be able to use the middle-mile network, potentially increasing regional connectivity and expanding affordable options across four counties.
Equipment for the project is built with resilience in mind; it is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions and includes backup power systems for outages.
The CPUC views this initiative as an example of how community-driven projects combined with state investment can help close California’s digital divide. The agency encourages other communities facing similar challenges—such as difficult geography or wildfire risk—to consider applying for CASF support by reviewing program requirements and seeking technical assistance from CPUC staff.
From mountainous regions to coastal areas, targeted investments like this are intended to expand digital access throughout California.
