A recent $20 million federal grant from the U.S. Treasury will boost public computer and wireless Internet access for 12,000 Pennsylvania residents, with an emphasis on areas with limited broadband connectivity. The state’s Digital Access Opportunities Grant Program is designed to distribute funds to libraries, schools and public facilities to purchase computers and provide digital literacy training.
The initiative, supported by Democratic U.S. Sens. Bob Casey and John Fetterman, will promote access to higher education, telehealth services, and employment opportunities that were previously inaccessible in some communities. We aim to do that. The funding aims to help overcome digital barriers that affect different demographics, including young mothers, small businesses and older people who want to stay in touch with their families.
The move is consistent with Pennsylvania’s strategy announced in late 2022 to develop high-speed broadband infrastructure in underserved areas with $400 million in federal funding. This is part of a larger plan, and the state is expected to receive about $2 billion by 2028 for these expansions. These developments have also brought to light challenges such as labor shortages, permitting issues, and wage requirements. However, among service providers, there are more than 279,000 unserved locations with internet speeds less than 25 mbps, and an additional 54,000 underserved locations. Ready to address gaps in your network.
