Comcast reported that Sanibel’s internet access is now more resilient, robust and secure thanks to a major investment. It recently completed over $72 million in work to restore connectivity and fortify its Xfinity network in Southwest Florida following Hurricane Ian’s impact.

The hurricane’s landfall in September of 2022 destroyed the Xfinity network. Within 48 hours of Ian’s passing, Comcast initiated the rebuild to restore service, enabling customers like the Tower Gallery to get back online. President Marianne Ravenna credited the internet with keeping the gallery in business.

“When Hurricane Ian hit, we had to close for almost five months. The internet is what saved us,” she said in a Comcast news release. “It truly helped us stay connected and available to our customers.”

The recently completed project comprises of over 70 miles of new lines rebuilt across the island, including the installation of a 10-mile underground fiber line from the mainland to Sanibel. The new fiber allows Comcast to provide network redundancy, making sure there is a back-up connection.

“Our commitment to this vibrant community runs deep,” Comcast Florida Regional Senior Vice President Jeff Buzzelli said. “This network infrastructure is a big deal and we’re proud to be actively investing in Sanibel and other parts of Southwest Florida. The new fiber line and its strategic installation should bring a sense of comfort to those on the island.”

Comcast reported that network redundancy means there are separate fiber paths connecting Sanibel and the mainland. If one of them is down, services will most likely not be impacted because the other fiber path will take over and provide connectivity. The network could still be impacted by other factors, however, the redundancy makes the network stronger and better positioned to provide connectivity.

“Rebuilding their entire network so businesses and residents could get back online was a monumental task,” Sanibel Mayor Richard Johnson said. “Having access to fast, reliable internet is a must nowadays. The completion of this infrastructure project is not only going to help us stay connected, but also ready for the future.”

“It’s encouraging to see a technology leader like Comcast work to ensure business and residential customers can stay online even when severe weather impacts us,” SanCap Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai added. “That is just another way they are showing up as a great partner to our community.”