Comcast announced it has submitted 91 applications in the second round of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Broadband Infrastructure Gap Networks Grant Program as administered by the Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI). The Program will fund the deployment of high-speed broadband to unserved or underserved locations in Massachusetts.
If awarded, Comcast’s applications aim to connect the remaining homes and businesses in 91 communities to the company’s Xfinity network, which delivers gig speeds, world-class reliability, and the best WiFi experience in-and-out of the home over a robust fiber network.
Throughout Massachusetts, Comcast has invested almost $909 million over the last three years in private capital to build, maintain and operate the Xfinity next generation network. The public-private partnership model, like MBI’s Grant Program, is necessary to reach the locations where the economics prevent private investment alone and the company has already received over 140 letters of support from local communities across the state for the applications.
Through the first round of the Broadband Infrastructure Gap Networks Program, Comcast was awarded grants to connect unserved and underserved residents in Monson, Palmer and Ware, as well as communities in Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.
Carolyne Hannan, SVP, New England Region, Comcast
Comcast has a proven track record of connecting residents and businesses in the Commonwealth to reliable and fast Internet service and we look forward to partnering with MBI to further expand the Xfinity network to fully connect local communities. We have completed five broadband expansion projects in partnership with the MBI, connecting more than 3,000 homes and businesses since 2018. Endorsement by the MBI of the applications would build on the successful public-private partnership and connect more Massachusetts residents and businesses to the power of the Xfinity network.
Paul Niedzwiecki, CEO, Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce
Comcast is an important company and crucial partner to all 15 towns on Cape Cod that rely heavily on Comcast’s infrastructure. Comcast’s robust broadband network continues to be integral to our community’s needs, and we appreciate Comcast’s commitment to Massachusetts. We supported Comcast’s application for funding through the Broadband Infrastructure Gap Networks Program which will enable much needed broadband service to unserved areas of Cape Cod and other parts of Massachusetts.
Gina-Louise Sciarra, Mayor, City of Northampton
Fast and reliable broadband Internet is integral to our community. We have been happy to partner with Comcast over the years as they have served our residents and businesses, investing in our city’s connectivity needs. We support Comcast’s Broadband Infrastructure Gap Networks Grant Program application and recommend they receive the funding needed to connect unserved residents within the City of Northampton.