USDA Funds Broadband Expansion in Rural Minnesota, North Dakota and Texas

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack awarded nearly $40 million in loans for new or improved broadband service in rural parts of Minnesota, North Dakota and Texas.

The loans are being funded through USDA Rural Utilities Service's Telecommunications Infrastructure Loan Program to finance projects to expand voice, video and data services.

"Broadband is essential to the economic strength of rural communities," Sec Vilsack said. "It improves access to education and quality health care, and it leads to new jobs and business opportunities. Broadband is part of everyday life in most of America and vital for economic success in the 21st Century. Rural America cannot be left out."