The City of Ukiah and Vero Fiber have launched fiber-to-the-home services in Ukiah, California, activating connectivity for more than 1,600 homes and businesses as part of the Ukiah Gigabit Fiber Project.

The multi-year initiative aims to provide affordable, ultra-high-speed fiber-optic broadband connectivity to around 3,000 homes, businesses, schools and community facilities across the City of Ukiah. Under the project’s first phase, the fiber-optic infrastructure will be owned by the City of Ukiah and operated by Vero Fiber through a long-term public-private partnership. The arrangement is intended to expand broadband availability equitably and sustainably, with newly activated network coverage extending along S State Street between E Gobbi Street and Talmage Road. Residents and businesses in the newly connected areas can access symmetrical internet speeds of up to 5.0 Gbps. The service is designed to provide reliable connectivity and local customer support for activities such as remote working, streaming and accessing essential services, while also supporting the growth of Ukiah’s local economy.

Since entering Humboldt and Mendocino Counties in 2024, Vero has recruited 28 local employees across network design, construction, sales, marketing, field operations and customer service. The Ukiah project is being rolled out in phases, with additional neighborhoods within the city limits expected to receive service as construction continues through December 2026. Engineering work for Phase 2 has also begun, with further details expected later this year. The expanded network will provide reliable high-speed internet to homes, businesses, essential service facilities, healthcare providers and schools without hidden charges or unexpected price increases. Vero also provides special discounts through its Vero’s Heroes program for first responders, healthcare workers, military personnel, educators, police officers and firefighters.