Golden State Connect Authority signs first agreement to use California's BEAD middle-mile network
Golden State Connect Authority, a joint powers authority of 40 rural California counties, became the first entity to sign an agreement with the California Department of Technology to connect its Golden State Fiber network to the state's Middle-Mile Broadband Initiative network. The agreement was signed in July 2026 and publicized in late August 2026, supporting a buildout expected to reach more than 31,000 rural locations, with first connections targeted for early 2027.
Providers: Golden State Connect Authority, UTOPIA Fiber Source