Altoona Times

HARRISBURG - Representatives Rob Kauffman (R-Chambersburg), Rich Irvin (R-Shippensburg), and Paul Schemel (R-Waynesboro) have expressed approval for the allocation of $4.2 million in Broadband Infrastructure Program grant funding awarded to Franklin County.

"This funding is essential to improving broadband service for residents and businesses in underserved areas of the county," the lawmakers stated. "In today’s world, almost everything is done via the internet, whether it is shopping, paying bills, doing schoolwork, conducting business or having telemedicine appointments. Because of this, we need to ensure faster and more reliable internet access to those areas of the county that do not currently have adequate service."

The $4.2 million grant is part of a broader initiative involving $204.1 million in grants for 53 projects approved by the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority on Thursday. The funds allocated to Franklin County will be directed to Zito West Holding, LLC to support ongoing broadband deployment efforts.

The program funding originates from the American Rescue Plan Act and is designated exclusively for costs related to the installation or acquisition of middle-mile and last-mile high-speed broadband infrastructure. This includes data-gathering, feasibility studies, community engagement and public feedback processes; repair, rehabilitation, construction, improvement, and acquisition of real property; equipment and facilities; as well as administrative costs.

The Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority was established to act as a single point of contact for parties interested in developing the state's broadband infrastructure and services.

Representative Rich Irvin

81st District

Representative Rob Kauffman

89th District

Representative Paul Schemel

90th District

Pennsylvania House of Representatives

Media Contact: Tricia Lehman 717-772-9840