Luzerne Times

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) announced today that northeastern Pennsylvania is being awarded $42.5 million to increase access to reliable, high-speed internet, according to Sens. Lisa Baker, Rosemary Brown, and Marty Flynn.

"Money for expanded and enhanced internet access is a key component of every economic development strategy, benefiting all communities. It is especially crucial in helping rural areas remain competitive for jobs. This helps businesses, institutions, educators, workers and at-home entrepreneurs. Wherever I go across the region, this funding has been a prominent request from officials and residents,” Baker said.

“High-speed internet isn’t a luxury – it’s a necessity for residents, especially in regions like northeastern Pennsylvania. It’s the key to unlocking economic opportunity, educational advancement and community connectivity. Without it, we risk leaving entire communities behind in the digital age,” Brown said.

“This investment is a critical step toward bridging the digital divide,” Flynn said. “Access to high-speed internet is essential for education, healthcare, business and everyday life. These funds will empower our constituents and strengthen our local economy.”

The approved grants include separate projects being performed by Adams CATV, Comcast Cable, and Verizon. Made possible through the federally funded Broadband Infrastructure Program, $200 million in competitive grants have been allocated for projects across the state aimed at areas without access to 25/3 Mbps internet service.

To ensure transparency and efficiency, the PBDA mandates quarterly and annual progress reports from grantees, accompanied by comprehensive guidance on state and federal requirements and technical support. All funds must be utilized by Dec. 31, 2026. Grantees will be held accountable for the prudent expenditure of awarded funds. The PBDA can claw back any unused or misused funds.

This inaugural round of grants represents a significant milestone in the PBDA’s broader initiative to close the digital divide since the General Assembly established the PBDA in 2021.

CONTACT:

Jennifer Wilson (Baker)

Mackenzie Mueller (Brown)

Ryan Adcroft (Flynn)