More than 2,800 homes and businesses in Glades County now have access to new high-speed internet service following the completion of a major broadband expansion project.
Comcast announced that its Xfinity and Comcast Business services are now available in parts of Glades County, including Lakeport, Moore Haven, Ortona and Sarasota Colony.
More than 2,100 of the locations previously did not have access to broadband service, according to a company press release.
The expansion was completed through a partnership between Comcast and the state of Florida as part of an effort to bring reliable high-speed internet to rural communities.
State Rep. Kaylee Tuck called it a “major step forward” for the county. “Reliable Internet access creates new opportunities for our families, students, and small businesses, and helps position Glades County for long-term success,” she said.
In 2023, Comcast received $50 million through Florida’s Broadband Opportunity Program to expand its network to about 40,000 homes and businesses across 23 Florida counties. Glades County was among the rural areas included in the program.
The new network gives residents access to Xfinity internet service, while local businesses can sign up for Comcast Business services.
The expansion is particularly important in rural areas, where some families and businesses have struggled with limited or unreliable internet options. Broadband access has become increasingly important for work, education, health care, business operations and other everyday needs.
Comcast said the expanded network also gives customers access to its mobile, television and home security services.
The Glades County project is part of a larger effort by the state to close gaps in internet access in rural Florida.