WASHINGTON, DC-U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-PA) and Arlen Specter (D-PA) today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has awarded federal funds to two companies to develop broadband infrastructure in Pennsylvania and neighboring states. The funding is available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).
“The federal funding that has been awarded to develop broadband infrastructure across rural parts of Pennsylvania is yet another way the Recovery Act is positively impacting the Commonwealth,” said Senator Casey. “These projects will help individuals in communities with limited internet capabilities access the information many of us take for granted.”
“Access to the internet is critical in today’s world and these investments will help bridge the digital divide so that all Pennsylvanians can be connected to a solid communications infrastructure,” Senator Specter said. “This funding is great news for Pennsylvania as it will create jobs, spur investments in technology, and provide long-term economic benefits to the region.”
The funding is part of $1.2 billion announced today by USDA for 126 broadband infrastructure projects across the country. The aim of the funding is to expand broadband infrastructure and bring jobs and economic opportunity to rural communities.
West Virginia PCS Alliance, LC is receiving $3,268,518 to provide cost effective high-speed mobile broadband to various rural and low-income areas of the existing NTELOS PCS wireless network in rural Pennsylvania, Maryland and West Virginia. West Virginia PCS Alliance's project stands to benefit over 185,000 people. In addition, nearly 9,000 businesses and 2,000 community institutions stand to benefit from this project. Of the funding awarded to West Virginia PCS Alliance, 46% will be used in Pennsylvania, 37% will be used in Maryland and 17% will be used in West Virginia.
Deposit Telephone Company, Inc. is receiving $3,143,839 to bring high-speed DSL broadband service to unserved establishments in Pennsylvania and New York. Deposit Telephone's project stands to benefit approximately 2,700 people and over 70 businesses. Of the funding awarded to Deposit Telephone, 4% will be used in Pennsylvania and 96% will be used in New York.
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