USDA Considering Drawing on Infrastructure Bill Money as ReConnect Demand Increases

Christopher McLean, the acting administrator of the US Department of Agriculture’s Rural Utilities Service said that his office has seen so much interest in the third round for its broadband funds that it is considering drawing on other federal infrastructure funds to satisfy demand. The latest round for money from the RUS's ReConnect program received 305 applications requesting a total of $4.8 billion, but the program allocated only $1.15 billion for the round. McLean said that while his office is currently evaluating the applications, it is also now considering drawing on the $2 billion the office was allocated under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to meet the demand for builds intended to connect the underserved. McLean added that the USDA is expecting to announce winners for the third round this summer and is preparing to announce an additional fourth round.