Comcast announced a major milestone in the company’s effort expanding ultra-fast internet access across rural parts of Florida.
The company expanded its next-generation network to more than 32,000 homes and businesses in 16 counties, enhancing digital infrastructure, promoting economic growth, and positioning residents and local businesses for success in an increasingly digital world. The network expansion brings Internet, mobile, entertainment, and security services from Xfinity and Comcast Business to those residents and businesses for the first time.
The projects were made possible thanks to a public-private partnership with the state of Florida’s Broadband Opportunity Program and Capital Projects Fund. One of the largest areas to benefit from the program is Lehigh Acres. In the unincorporated part of eastern Lee County, more than 11,000 homes now can access high-speed connectivity.
“Expanding access to high-speed Internet in rural Florida isn’t just about technology, it’s about creating opportunity,” said Jeff Buzzelli, Senior Vice President for Comcast’s Florida Region. “From students to small businesses to entire communities, this investment helps shrink the digital divide and unlocks the tools people need to thrive. We’re proud to partner with the state of Florida to make this a reality.”
This expansion announcement includes completed projects in the following counties: Bradford County, Charlotte County, Clay County, Collier County, Columbia County, DeSoto County, Highlands County, Jackson County, Lee County, Leon County, Marion County, Martin County, Miami-Dade County, Okeechobee County, St. Johns County, and St. Lucie County.
“High-speed internet is essential not just for a better quality of life, but to strengthening American competitiveness,” said District 28 State Senator Kathleen Passidomo. “By bringing broadband to more communities across Florida, Comcast is opening doors and paving the way for education, economic growth and prosperity.”
This new, next-generation network will provide access to faster Internet speeds, offering gigabit+ Internet speeds to residential and business customers.
“Expanding broadband access is critical to the long-term success of our region’s economy and workforce,” said State Representative and President of SWFL, Inc. Tiffany Esposito. “Reliable, high-speed Internet empowers families, supports students, and fuels innovation for local businesses. I’m proud to support efforts that bring this essential infrastructure to communities like Lehigh Acres.”
With the support of the Broadband Opportunity Program and Capital Projects Fund, Comcast is on track to complete the company’s commitment to expand Internet access to a total of 64,000 homes and businesses in rural Florida by the end of 2026. Work will continue to build to 32,000 new locations in 13 additional counties. Those counties include: Bay County, Glades County, Hamilton County, Hardee County, Hendry County, Indian River County, Lake County, Nassau County, Polk County, Putnam County, Sarasota County, Union County, and Wakulla County. In all, the projects amount to a $322 million investment between Comcast and the state of Florida.
“This investment and infrastructure in Lehigh Acres are so important,” said Lee County Commissioner Mike Greenwell. “We’re thrilled to see Comcast recognize the potential here and take real steps to help our residents and businesses thrive.”