Comcast has been around since 1963, and over the decades, its name has become nearly synonymous with home connectivity. Comcast provides everything from internet and cable to phone service, entertainment, and even theme parks like the upcoming Epic Universe in Orlando. But at its core, what Comcast is best known for is reliable internet and a longstanding commitment to increasing digital accessibility for everyone.
If you live in Rio Rancho, you’ve probably heard the buzz: Comcast is in the midst of a major fiber internet expansion that has already brought high-speed service to more than 20,000 homes in the area.
Recently, our ABQ Mom team was invited to Comcast’s “Cool, Calm, and Connected” media tour. This event marked the halfway point of this multi-million-dollar investment in Rio Rancho’s digital future. While we already trusted Comcast for its reliable service and presence in the community, this tour gave us a firsthand look at just how deeply Comcast is investing in New Mexico and the lives of local families.
The tour kicked off at the Rio Rancho Regional Chamber of Commerce. Here local leaders and Comcast representatives highlighted the economic and community impact of the fiber expansion.
Rio Rancho Mayor Greggory Hull noted, “We’re excited to see the progress being made on Comcast’s network expansion into Rio Rancho. This investment in Rio Rancho brings advancements that reflect our community’s growth.”
Over the last three years, Comcast has invested $594.9 million in New Mexico, with $305.7 million going directly toward infrastructure. This investment includes network upgrades and new construction. That’s not just a number. It’s a commitment to future-proofing our communities.
We then visited a live construction site, where crews were actively laying the groundwork (literally!) for the new fiber-optic network.
It was eye-opening to see how much coordination goes into each neighborhood’s installation. Before a single shovel hits the dirt, utility companies—water, gas, and electric—map out their lines to prevent disruption. Comcast also notifies residents multiple times before construction begins.
It’s a labor-intensive process, but Comcast emphasized its “dig once, do it right” approach. They prioritize minimal disruption and full restoration of any affected landscaping or pavement. As a working mom juggling school drop-offs, nap times, and Zoom calls, I really appreciated hearing that. It’s good to know that my driveway won’t become another thing on my to-do list.
The final stop of our tour brought us to ReadWest, Inc., a local nonprofit and a Comcast Lift Zone partner.
Lift Zones are spaces in neighborhood community centers that provide free Internet access for students and families.
Through Lift Zones, Comcast has partnered with nonprofit organizations and community centers across the country. These spaces don’t just offer WiFi. They’re equipped with laptops, digital literacy training, and access to educational content to support long-term growth and opportunity.
At ReadWest, the focus is on adult literacy and life skills. These skills include job readiness, parenting, citizenship preparation, and basic survival skills. Comcast’s support, through both technology and connectivity, helps this vital organization reach more learners every day.
What’s Next for Rio Rancho?
This fiber expansion is just one part of Comcast’s larger investment in New Mexico, as the company continues to build a faster, more reliable digital network across the state. The Rio Rancho project is expected to be completed in phases through 2026, with some neighborhoods already seeing the benefits of lightning-fast fiber internet.
Not sure if your neighborhood is included yet? You can check availability here and sign up for updates as service becomes available.
Comcast has long been a trusted name in connectivity. And their work in Rio Rancho proves that they’re not resting on their reputation. With significant infrastructure investments, community partnerships, and a clear eye toward the future, they’re making sure New Mexicans have access to the tools they need to stay connected and thrive.
Whether you’re streaming Bluey, job hunting, taking online classes, or running a household, reliable internet matters. And Comcast is making sure Rio Rancho has access to it.
