EYEWITNESS NEWS (WBRE/WYOU) — Pennsylvania has been granted over $40 million on Thursday to increase residents’ access to faster internet.

The Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) announced Thursday that according to Senators Lisa Baker (R-20), Rosemary Brown (R-20), and Marty Flynn (D-22), Northeastern Pennsylvania (NEPA) is being granted $42.5 million to increase access to reliable, high-speed internet.

Officials say this award was made possible through the federally funded Broadband Infrastructure Program, which has allocated $200 million in competitive grants for projects across the state aimed at areas without access to 25/3 Mbps (Megabits per second) internet service.

Money for expanded and enhanced internet access is a key component of every economic development strategy, benefiting all communities. It is especially crucial in helping rural areas remain competitive for jobs. This helps businesses, institutions, educators, workers and at-home entrepreneurs. Wherever I go across the region, this funding has been a prominent request from officials and residents. Even this down payment on meeting a range of needs will have a tangible impact. We are relying on the companies to utilize the funding in ways that will provide the greatest benefit for the entire customer base.”

Senator Losa Baker (R-20)

According to officials, the approved grants are separate projects being done by Adams CATV, Comcast Cable, and Verizon:

  • $22,029,647 for Lackawanna County.
  • $9,976,419 for Luzerne County.
  • $5,953,318 for Monroe, Pike, and Wayne Counties.
  • $4,018,650 for Wyoming County.
  • $517,292 for Wayne County.

“This investment is a critical step toward bridging the digital divide. Access to high-speed internet is essential for education, healthcare, business, and everyday life. These funds will empower our constituents and strengthen our local economy,” said Senator Marty Flynn (D-22).

According to officials, this round of grants represents a milestone in the PBDA’s initiative to close the digital divide since the PBDA was established in 2021.

To learn more about the PBDA visit their website for more information on “Broadband in Pennsylvania.”