The Coronavirus Capital Projects Fund (CPF) is a program out of the U.S. Department of Treasury created in 2021 to “fund critical capital projects that enable work, education, and health monitoring, including remote options, in response to the public health emergency.” A total of $9.8 billion was allocated to States, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico under this program.

Hawai‘i submitted grant and program plans to Treasury in September 2022, and in April 2023, these plans were approved by CPF. Hawai‘i submitted two program plans for a total of $115 million in funding for use towards critical broadband infrastructure for all residents in the State. In 2025, program plans were revised and all funds re-allocated to the Hawaii Subsea Middle Mile Program, which will be completed by 2026.

Hawaii Subsea Middle Mile Program

The Hawaii Subsea Middle Mile Program will fund the construction of a new subsea interisland broadband fiber system. In January 2024, the University announced a public-private partnership with Ocean Networks to construct the Hawaiian Islands Fiber Link (HIFL), a carrier-neutral, open-access system with landing sites on Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi, Maui, Kauaʻi, Lānaʻi and Molokaʻi. HIFL is the first of two proposed subsea interisland systems and the State’s northern inter-island fiber path system connecting the islands. Once the permitting process is complete, system construction can begin. Permitting and construction will take three-plus years, including constructing “front haul” facilities (i.e., where submarine fiber meets land). The new fiber system will be ready for service in 2026.

This program will provide long-term resiliency and support continued Internet service to all residents across the state.

For more information please visit the HIFL Website.