HARRISBURG – U.S. Sen. Judy Ward (R-30) and U.S. Sen. Wayne Langerholk Jr. (R-35) today announced plans to increase access to reliable, high-speed internet with Pennsylvania Broadband in Blair County and Cambria. announced it would give the county $11.9 million. Development Agency (PBDA).
“High-speed broadband is essential in today’s increasingly technological world,” Ward said. “In rural communities, access to high-speed broadband is often a barrier to finding a new job, connecting to critical services, and communicating with loved ones. It will help improve the quality of life by providing more effective and reliable broadband to the communities that rely on it every day.”
“We are excited to partner with Sen. Judy Ward on these projects that will provide the region with access to reliable, high-speed internet service. These investments will have a lasting impact on our community. ” Langerholk said.
Made possible by the federally funded Broadband Infrastructure Program, competitive grants totaling $200 million were awarded to projects across the state lacking 25/3 Mbps internet service.
To ensure transparency and efficiency, PBDA requires quarterly and annual progress reports from grantees with comprehensive guidance on state and federal requirements and technical support. All funds must be spent by December 31, 2026. Grant recipients are responsible for prudently spending the funds awarded. The PBDA has the ability to recover unspent or misused funds.
This first round of grants marks an important milestone in PBDA’s broader efforts to close the digital divide since the General Assembly established PBDA in 2021.
Media contact:
Nathan Akers (District) 717-787-2421
Gwen Dando (Langerholk) 717-787-5400
