West Virginia keeps working to extend broadband, Carmichael tells lawmakers

West Virginia development officials have been focusing on expanding broadband internet service through a range of resources, Development Secretary Mitch Carmichael told legislators. Money is flowing from federal, state, and local sources; specifically $33 million in state and local recovery funds, $70 million in Capital Project Funds (CPF), and $44 million in private investment. That adds up to $147 million in total investment. Carmichael said American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds have gone toward funding 24 projects in 38 West Virginia counties, accounting for more than 3,000 miles of infrastructure. Carmichael said state officials have focused on mapping to ensure there isn’t unnecessary redundancy. Kelly Workman, director of the state Office of Broadband, said three of the 24 total projects funded have already been completed within the past year, accounting for 79 miles of fiber.