HARRISBURG — Sen. Dan Laughlin (R-49) announced Friday that more than $13.4 million in federal funding has been awarded to expand broadband access across Erie County through the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program.
The funding, totaling $13,454,375.53, will be used by broadband providers to expand service in areas of Erie County that still lack reliable high-speed internet. Providers receiving awards in this round include Amazon Kuiper, Armstrong Telecommunications Inc., CoreConnect, and SpaceX.
The expansion projects will use a mix of fiber and satellite technology to improve connectivity and ensure more households and businesses have access to reliable internet service.
“This investment is a major step toward closing the digital divide in Erie County,” Laughlin said. “Reliable broadband is essential for education, healthcare, economic growth, and everyday life, and I’m proud to see these resources being directed to the residents of our community.”
The awards are provisional and remain subject to final approval by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). Adjustments may be made during NTIA’s review process, and applicants may choose not to move forward with certain projects or project areas. In such cases, funding could shift to the next-ranked project.
The BEAD Program is federally funded and administered in Pennsylvania by the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority. The program aims to ensure that all residents have access to affordable, reliable high-speed internet service.
CONTACT:
Chris Carroll
Phone: 814-453-2515