Altoona Times

Sen. Judy Ward expressed the importance of the investment made by the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) in Blair County, stating, "The ability to access high-speed broadband is for more than just entertainment. Services that our communities rely on every day, like EMS, police, and fire, depend on the efficient and reliable broadband. Ensuring this access through grant projects like these goes a long way to keeping our communities safe and improving their quality of life."

The investment of more than $1.8 million in Blair County is part of a larger initiative by the PBDA to address the lack of 25/3 Mbps internet service in various regions of Pennsylvania. This funding, made possible by the federally funded Broadband Infrastructure Program, aims to improve access to reliable high-speed internet in underserved areas.

According to the announcement, the PBDA will monitor the progress of the grant projects closely to ensure transparency and efficiency. Grantees are required to provide quarterly and annual progress reports, adhere to state and federal guidelines, and utilize the funds by December 31, 2026. The PBDA has also emphasized accountability, stating that unused or misused funds can be reclaimed.

This round of grants marks a significant step in the PBDA's mission to bridge the digital divide in Pennsylvania since its establishment in 2021. The investment in Blair County and other regions underscores the importance of ensuring that all communities have access to reliable high-speed internet for essential services and quality of life improvements.

Residents interested in staying updated on legislative news from Sen. Judy Ward can follow her on Facebook at Facebook.com/SenJudyWard and on Twitter @SenatorJWard. More information, including contact details for her district offices and newsletter sign-up, can be found on her website at SenatorJudyWard.com.

For media inquiries, please contact Nathan Akers at 717-787-2421.