AVALON — A major infrastructure project aimed at improving connectivity on Catalina Island has reached an early but significant milestone, as AVX Networks begins its marine survey phase to support the installation of a submarine fiber-optic cable linking the island to the mainland.
The 10-day geophysical survey, conducted aboard the vessel Bold Explorer, is mapping underwater and nearshore conditions across approximately 25 nautical miles between Catalina Island and Huntington Beach. The data collected will help determine the most suitable route for the cable while informing future engineering, environmental review, and permitting efforts.
Funded by a $37.5 million grant from the California Public Utilities Commission’s Last Mile Federal Funding Account, the project is designed to bring reliable high-speed internet to roughly 3,500 Catalina residents and more than 1,100 currently unserved locations.
Survey teams are gathering detailed information including seafloor mapping, sonar imagery, sediment samples, and sub-surface data to ensure the cable route avoids sensitive marine habitats, existing infrastructure, and potential cultural resources such as historic shipwrecks. The goal is to install the cable at least one meter below the seafloor where feasible.
According to AVX Networks, the survey phase began approximately three months ahead of schedule, reflecting early coordination and planning efforts.
Once completed, the submarine cable system is expected to significantly enhance the island’s digital infrastructure, supporting everything from healthcare and education to emergency communications and local business operations.
