California is strengthening broadband connections to improve access to education, health services and employment opportunities throughout the state. The Middle-Mile Broadband Initiative is the first step to creating an open-access, middle-mile network that will build infrastructure to bring high-speed broadband service to unserved and underserved communities, regardless of technology used, on equal economic and service terms.

The project, which was announced in 2021, is being fueled by $3.8 billion in federal and state funds. The state’s network design calls for a total of 10,000 miles of fiber. The largest portion of the project will run through San Bernadino County, which will be home to 850 miles of fiber. Kern County (544 miles), Riverside County (535 miles) and Los Angeles County (525 miles) will also account for substantial portions of the system. California’s Department of Transportation (Caltrans) is working with the state’s Department of Technology to complete the project.

Francison Consulting Inc. is providing the regional construction project management thoughout most of the State and is working alongside the California Department of Technology (CDT) and its consultants to deliver this challenging and critical milestone project.