Shapiro administration announces $45 million for high-speed internet projects at local schools, libraries and community centers

Gov. Josh Shapiro’s administration approved funding expanding high-speed internet access in dozens of public schools, libraries and community health centers across the commonwealth. 

Dozens of communities across Pennsylvania are set to benefit from projects expanding access to high-speed internet. 

The Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) recently approved $45 million in grants from the Multi-Purpose Community Facilities Program for 49 projects expanding high-speed internet access in public schools, local libraries and community health centers. 

“In the 21st century, access to high-speed, affordable internet isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity – and places like the Cambria County Library System help thousands of Pennsylvanians get online and access opportunity,” Gov. Josh Shapiro said at the Cambria County Library on Tuesday. “When people are connected to reliable, affordable internet, they have better health outcomes, better education outcomes, and better economic outcomes.”

The Cambria County Library in Johnstown recently received a $2 million grant to create a new learning lab and WiFi-accessible spaces on its first floor. 

Other projects that were approved by the PBDA include: 

• $1.6 million to Fox Township in Elk County to help construct a History and Humanities Center that will feature a public cybercafe and Wi-Fi hot spot for the community
• $1.5 million to the Chester House Authority in Delaware County to help launch an online health center to address health disparities of seniors and the lack of access to technology and healthcare.
• $787,323 to Liberty Township in Susquehanna County to help with the rehabilitation of Grange Hall and establish a centralized hub for broadband access.
• $379,000 to the Ralpho Township Public Library in Northumberland County to help with the renovation of the library and equip it with computers and privacy pods. 

“Public places like our libraries, health centers, and non-profit organizations are part of the fabric of our communities, and this funding will help them better serve their residents,” PBDA Executive Director Brandon Carson said in a statement.

“Access to high-speed internet is essential for everyone to succeed in today’s digital world, and investing in improvements to public facilities that provide access directly where it is needed most is an important step in ensuring the success of our Commonwealth.”