Bay Area leverages rights of way for fibre growth

Bay Area cities in California are advancing connectivity with the completion of 130 kilometres of high-capacity fibre as part of the California Middle-Mile Broadband Initiative, aimed at expanding broadband access to underserved areas.

The fibre will enhance connectivity in cities including Oakland, San Francisco, Santa Clara, and San Jose, forming part of a broader 355-kilometre infrastructure. This expansion will benefit businesses, schools, healthcare facilities, and residents, especially in communities facing persistent connectivity challenges.

The fibre backbone, deployed by Boldyn Networks, is being installed using strategic rights of way along various transit and utility corridors, including BART lines (pictured). Additionally, it leverages other pathways that help speed up installation while reducing environmental impact and operational costs. The fibre system will provide essential infrastructure to support high-speed internet, laying the foundation for future technologies like AI, 5G, and smart cities.

“The completion of this segment of the Middle Mile network is a significant step forward in our mission to ensure all Californians have access to reliable and affordable internet,” said Jared Johnson, California Deputy Chief Information Officer. “Partnerships with companies like Boldyn Networks are vital to maximising the impact of available resources in closing the digital divide and promoting equitable access to digital resources.”

The completed network will feature over 37,000 kilometres of fibre and more than 100 access points by mid-2025. This expansion is particularly important for improving digital equity and extending broadband to underserved communities particularly areas such as East and West Oakland, where residents have faced significant connectivity challenges.

“This transformative infrastructure investment is critical in building the next generation of networks that will connect homes, schools, and businesses,” said Patrick Messac, Director of #OaklandUndivided. “It’s about ensuring that all residents–especially those in historically marginalised neighbourhoods–have access to the digital tools and opportunities they need to thrive, making broadband access not just a service, but a fundamental civil right.”

Image: Eric Broder Van Dyke | Dreamstime.com