Gov. Tom Wolf and other administration members recently gathered at Marion-Walker Elementary in Centre County to highlight the federal $45 billion Internet for All Initiative.
The U.S. Department of Commerce announced the initiative last week. It will provide affordable, reliable, high-speed internet for every American by 2030. The initiative comprises three programs to build internet infrastructure, teach digital skills, and provide the necessary technology.
“Lack of broadband hurts Pennsylvanians far and wide — urban and rural,” Wolf said. “Our lack of consistent, affordable broadband keeps children from learning effectively, businesses from growing, limits job opportunities and reduces medical care options. But soon, this will all be history — that we can read online — thanks to the Biden Administration’s continued commitment to improved infrastructure for our combined success.”
In addition, Pennsylvania will receive a minimum of $100 million from the federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program. The Federal Communications Commission will distribute hundreds of millions of dollars based on coverage maps.
Wolf and the General Assembly created the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority to prepare for the funding and ensure oversight and support for broadband deployment. The authority will create a statewide broadband plan and distribute state and federal funds to unserved and underserved areas.