Body of News Release
San Rafael, CA – Improving internet connectivity in rural West Marin has been a County of Marin priority for years. The long-term project received a significant boost from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC).
Last Mile Federal Funding Account infrastructure grants worth more than $90 million, earmarked for high-speed fiber internet networks in several counties, were approved September 12 by the CPUC Board of Directors. Marin County was awarded $11 million to fully fund construction of a broadband network to homes and businesses in the unincorporated Marin communities of Muir Beach, Tomales, and Dillon Beach. According to the terms of the grant, construction of the broadband fiber network must be completed by mid- to late 2026.
Broadband fiber networks provide faster and more reliable internet connections than other internet access options. The new network in West Marin will implement an automated open-access model where multiple internet service providers will be able to offer products and services directly to consumers using the County-owned fiber system, which is connected to their homes. All internet packages will be symmetrical with the same speeds for both download and upload with no consumer data caps or annual contracts.
"We are thrilled to see years of hard work to bridge the digital divide come to fruition with this grant,” said Liza Massey, the County’s Chief Information Officer. “The open-access model, which is new to Marin and seldom used across the country, will serve as an innovative proof of concept. We are excited about its potential to be replicated and create more equitable access in the future."
Through a public private partnership with EntryPoint Networks, Inc., the fiber system installation will be at no cost to consumers, and internet service packages will range from $40-$60 a month for high-speed internet service. Historically, wireline connections capable of delivering broadband internet access have not been available to a majority of these locations.
EntryPoint Networks, based in Utah, was founded in 2010 to facilitate improved broadband access and regularly works with local governments on connectivity projects. EntryPoint's team members have collaborated with the Digital Marin coalition and the Massey’s Department of Information Services & Technology.
“Marin County has demonstrated exemplary public leadership in pursuit of digital equity. We are excited by the opportunity to partner with the County to help achieve Digital Marin's goal of providing high-quality broadband access to every resident in Marin," said Bruce Patterson, EntryPoint’s Head of Operations. "Together, we are fully committed to ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital age.”
Once connected, consumers can manage their internet access services through an online portal and can subscribe or unsubscribe to various packages from providers with a few clicks. No change of equipment or additional installation will be required.
Digital Marin is a cross-sector initiative that developed a countywide Broadband Strategic Plan and is working to increase local internet access and address digital equity gaps. The Broadband Plan outlines projects and initiatives to help reach these goals.
- High-quality broadband is available to everyone in Marin.
- Everyone in Marin can take advantage of all online opportunities,
- Marin has a high rate of digital adoption that benefits everyone,
- Marin has a community driven organization with a mission to deliver broadband for all.