Four more states announced projects to expand broadband access, increase adoption numbers and modernize state agencies. Here is a look at some of the projects getting underway:
Kentucky: Connected Nation is developing a $78 million plan combining public and private funding to bring high-speed Internet access to all state residents over the course of two years. CEO Brian Mefford said the project would also include broadband training courses. “The biggest barriers have to be addressed to get those people online,” Mefford said. “This program will begin addressing those barriers starting with the poorest of the poor.” The project will also create jobs in tech support and broadband education. “We’ll also be looking for other adults in the community who are technology savvy,” Mefford said, “who might be interested in being that type of ongoing resource.” Read the Daily News story here.
Minnesota: The Blandin Foundation has received a $4.7 million grant to be distributed through 19 rural community partners, including state workforce centers and state university system. The project will not actually build broadband fiber or wireless towers, but will seek to improve adoption and awareness of existing broadband capabilities. "This was not a slam dunk,'' said Blandin President Jim Hoolihan. "We're pretty excited.'' Read the Minneapolis Star Tribune story here.
