The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has joined with the City of Chico and local partners to begin construction on Chico’s first city-owned fiber broadband network. The project, which broke ground last week, is supported by approximately $12.7 million in grant funding from the CPUC’s Last Mile Federal Funding Account.
The new network aims to deliver high-speed internet service to nearly 9,102 locations throughout Chico, including homes, businesses, and community centers that have previously struggled with reliable connectivity. Construction crews are currently installing fiber lines and preparing infrastructure across the city.
According to the CPUC, this initiative goes beyond setting broadband policy and focuses on providing tangible benefits for residents. “These investments help ensure students can complete homework assignments, small businesses can reach customers online, and families can connect with healthcare, jobs, and services,” said a CPUC spokesperson. “The work in Chico reflects the purpose of the Last Mile Federal Funding Account program, to close the digital divide and bring internet infrastructure directly to communities.”
This project is part of a broader effort across California as similar broadband expansions are underway in other regions. The CPUC remains committed to ensuring all households have access to fast and affordable internet through its Broadband for All initiative.
More information about the Last Mile Federal Funding Account program is available at https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/LastMile.
