Washtenaw County Receives $2.4 Million CARES Act Grant for Broadband

The US Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $2.4 million CARES Act Recovery Assistance grant to Ann Arbor SPARK, Ann Arbor (MI), to construct 20 miles of underground fiber optic cable in the cities of Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti to attract and retain high-tech businesses, specifically in the growing mobility sector. This EDA grant, to be matched with $600,000 in local funds, is expected to create 67 jobs and generate $35.6 million in private investment. “Investing in high-speed internet broadband will provide countless opportunities for our small businesses to grow, and get Michigan back to work,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “Access to high-speed internet is essential for businesses to thrive, and this investment will create jobs and grow Michigan’s economy. I am grateful to President Biden and Secretary Raimondo for their dedication to Michigan workers.”