Thursday, May 3 2012 3:16PM
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced it is accepting grant applications through the Community Connect Broadband program to provide broadband service to those living in rural communities.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced it is accepting grant applications through the Community Connect Broadband program to provide broadband service to those living in rural communities.
The Community Connect grants are available to rural areas suffering from economic challenges. The funds will be used to build broadband infrastructure. Those awarded grants will be required to establish community centers that provide free public access to broadband.
The installation of broadband will help both businesses and residents living in rural communities across the country. USDA said it expects first responders, educators and health care professionals will greatly benefit from the service.
In 2011, grants from the program went to rural communities including Flat Top, Virginia, and to the Yurok Tribe in California to expand broadband service, offering free Internet access, while also promoting job creation.
"Ensuring that all Americans have access to reliable broadband is a key part of the Obama Administration's effort to help create jobs and expand economic opportunities in rural areas," said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.
For further information, check out this source:
U.S. Department of Agriculture