Two ARRA Broadband Grants for Virginia

The Rural Utilities Programs will fund two broadband infrastructure projects that will create jobs and provide rural residents in southwestern Virginia access to improved service. In all, $45 million will be invested in the two broadband infrastructure projects with funding made available through the Recovery Act. Broadband access plays a critical role in expanding economic, health care, educational and public safety services in underserved rural communities. Today's announcement is part of the second round of USDA broadband funding through the Recovery Act.

Scott County Telephone Cooperative will receive a $7.45 million loan and a $17.4 million grant to deploy Fiber-to-the-Premises (FTTP) infrastructure to bring advanced broadband service to the rural communities of southwest Virginia. This project will provide broadband access to about12,000 residents, 80 businesses and 16 community institutions. The company estimates this project will save or create approximately 150 jobs.

The Lenowisco Planning District Commission will receive a $6.06 million loan and a $14.16 million grant to build a fiber-optic network to one of the most economically challenged regions of Virginia. Over 42,000 residents will be given broadband access, along with an estimated 1,550 businesses and 100 community institutions. The company estimates this project will save or create approximately 70 jobs.