North Central PA Times

HARRISBURG – Sen. Lynda Schlegel Culver (R-27) announced today that the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) is awarding more than $1.6 million in grants to expand access to reliable, high-speed internet in Columbia County.

"Investments in broadband in rural communities create an endless number of possibilities for Pennsylvania residents," said Culver. "Everyone, from family farms to the local health care facilities and school districts, can benefit from this investment in broadband internet."

The grant money, totaling over $1.6 million, originated through the federally funded Broadband Infrastructure Program. PBDA awarded $200 million in competitive grants for projects in communities lacking 25/3 Mbps internet service.

PBDA ensures transparency and efficiency by mandating quarterly and annual progress reports from grantees. It provides comprehensive guidance on state and federal requirements and technical support. All funds must be used by Dec. 31, 2026. Grantees will be held accountable for the prudent expenditure of awarded funds. The PBDA can claw back any unused or misused funds.

"This inaugural round of grants represents a significant milestone in the PBDA’s broader initiative to close the digital divide since the General Assembly established the PBDA in 2021," Culver added.

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