Economic Development Administration Invests $1.8 Million in Increasing Broadband Access in Waterloo, Iowa

The Commerce Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $1.8 million grant to the city of Waterloo (IA) to expand internet connectivity for the city’s business corridor. This grant is funded by the American Rescue Plan. This project will construct a middle mile fiber network, supporting business growth, telemedicine connectivity, and virtual educational opportunities. The EDA investment will be matched with $667,682 in local funds and is expected to create 177 jobs, according to grantee estimates. This project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the Iowa Northland Regional Council of Governments (INRCOG). EDA funds INRCOG to bring together the public and private sectors to create an economic development roadmap to strengthen the regional economy, support private capital investment and create jobs.