SANTA CLARA, CA — Surfnet Communications, Inc. (Surfnet), today announced it will implement a $2.6 million grant in partnership with the nonprofit California Broadband Alliance (CBA) to extend fiber broadband to rural Santa Clara County communities in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) awarded the grant to the CBA, which selected Surfnet as its partner to build the infrastructure.
This latest grant brings the total funding received by Surfnet for fiber infrastructure to $17 million, enabling the company to continue to expand its network of fast, reliable and local internet to the communities that need it the most.
“We’re excited about another opportunity to partner with the California Broadband Alliance to build more fiber infrastructure that will deliver high-speed internet to underserved, rural communities,” said Ken Nye, Surfnet’s Chief Operating Officer.
The area served by the grant includes rural, mountainous communities where internet infrastructure is a challenge to build because of the terrain and weather. As a locally-owned company, Surfnet will leverage its direct experience to create infrastructure that is resilient in the unforgiving Santa Cruz Mountains environment that frequently experiences wildfire, mudslides, snow and more.
This latest round of funding brings high-speed internet to an estimated 204 people east of the Lexington Reservoir in Santa Clara County. Work in the areas covered by today’s grant is expected to begin in early 2025, with fiber service anticipated to begin in late 2025.
About Surfnet Communications, Inc.
Locally-owned and headquartered in Santa Cruz County, Surfnet Communications, Inc. is dedicated to advancing internet access and promoting digital inclusion across Central California’s coastal regions. With a focus on sustainable and resilient infrastructure, Surfnet aims to enhance connectivity for underserved communities, ensuring reliable and high-speed internet services to support economic growth and social well-being. Learn more at www.surfnetc.com.