HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) announced today that Greene and Washington counties will receive grants to improve digital connectivity by providing laptops, according to Sen. Camera Bartolotta (R-46).
“Having access to high-speed internet unlocks the full potential of students who are trying to learn, employers who are trying to succeed in their communities and adults who are trying to run their daily lives. However, especially given the elevated prices of basic necessities, the cost can be prohibitive for some. These grants will help to remove that challenge,” Bartolotta said.
Grants were awarded through the Federal American Rescue Plan Act Digital Connectivity Technology Program. Local governments and community institutions needed to prove that affordability is a barrier to broadband adoption in the competitive process to secure part of the $20 million of the program.
Greene County
- The Way Community Center of Greene County in Waynesburg will receive 30 laptops.
Washington County
- Food Helpers of Canonsburg will receive 20 laptops.
- Frank Sarris Public Library of Canonsburg will receive 30 laptops.
- Washington and Jefferson College of Washington will receive 30 laptops.
Having received support from Senate Republicans, a law created PBDA as an independent agency of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. PBDA is responsible for creating a statewide broadband plan and distributing federal and state dollars for broadband expansion projects in unserved and underserved areas of the state.
CONTACT: Katrina Hanna, 717-787-1463