County Board approves $23.7M Foothills broadband expansion project with Astound Broadband

In a recent meeting of the Placer County Board of Supervisors, significant strides were made towards enhancing broadband access in the region. The board approved a crucial agreement with Astound Broadband for the Foothills Broadband Expansion Project, which aims to bring high-speed fiber internet to underserved communities.

Peter Wittenberg from the county's Information Technology department presented an update on the broadband initiatives, highlighting the progress of existing projects and the anticipated benefits of the new expansion. The approved project, funded by a $23.75 million grant from the California Public Utilities Commission, will serve areas including Applegate, Cape Horn, Maghra, and Alta, ultimately reaching 3,825 locations.

Wittenberg noted that the project is a public-private partnership, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in addressing the growing demand for reliable internet services. He reported that 2,778 homes are already serviceable, with over 33% of residents enrolled in the service, a figure expected to rise as construction continues.

The board's approval also included a budget amendment to accommodate the grant funding, ensuring that the project can proceed without impacting the county's General Fund. The timeline for the project spans from January 15, 2025, to December 31, 2026, with ongoing efforts to keep the community informed about construction activities, particularly in areas where underground work will take place.

The meeting concluded without public comments, indicating a strong consensus among board members regarding the importance of this initiative. As Placer County continues to invest in broadband infrastructure, residents can look forward to improved connectivity that supports both personal and economic growth in the region.