FFA Sierra Nevada Communications, FIBER 108 – Strawberry Summer Hill

The FIBER 108 – Strawberry Summer Hill project, managed by Sierra Nevada Communications under the California Public Utilities Commission, will deploy approximately 5.07 miles of new fiber infrastructure, including 3.34 miles of underground fiber and 1.73 miles of aerial fiber, to connect unserved and underserved areas along Highway 108. The deployment includes underground vaults at key points such as the entrance to Peter Pam on Highway 108 and the start of the run from Cold Springs, with hand-holes installed every 600 feet along the underground trunk line extending from Strawberry School to the SNC head end. Though the project directly constructs only about five miles of new fiber, it serves as a critical link to over 12 miles of existing buried, aerial, and coaxial infrastructure, enabling service upgrades to 488 locations previously without adequate broadband. The high cost per mile—exceeding $270,000—is offset by an exceptionally low cost per connected location of under $3,000, making the investment highly efficient for expanding access. This initiative will deliver symmetrical 5,000/5,000 Mbps speeds to 162 unserved households and 632 unserved mass market locations, all of which are situated in low-income communities, fulfilling a strong commitment to environmental and social justice. Sierra Nevada Communications has pledged to offer a low-cost broadband plan compliant with D. 22-04-055, Section 3, and has committed to maintaining these prices for at least ten years, ensuring long-term affordability and accessibility. The project represents a targeted, infrastructure-driven solution that transforms connectivity for vulnerable populations while leveraging existing networks to maximize impact and cost-effectiveness.