Broadband Authority Collects Data for Pennsylvania Expansion

The Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority will soon have $1.16 billion in funds to upgrade internet service – and that effort is moving forward by collecting stories from community leaders across Pennsylvania, said Brandon Carson, the authority’s executive director. Carson met with local leaders, business operators and internet service providers from across Somerset, Cambria and Fayette (PA) counties during a “Broadband Through Community” meeting – one of 20 sessions planned statewide to gather feedback and insight about local internet needs and concerns. Carson said that the sessions are a required part of a five-year “action plan” that must be finalized to show how the money will be spent.  His message was that rural pockets of Pennsylvania will be big winners in the state’s effort to expand broadband service, but that it won’t happen overnight. “This is a historic, once-in-a-generation opportunity, and the federal government wants to make sure we get it right,” said Elizabeth Crowe, a senior public engagement specialist with Michael Baker International, which was selected by the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority to help carry the planning process toward fruition. Every corner of Pennsylvania – not just busy urban areas – needs fast, reliable and affordable internet service, Crowe said.