The U.S. Department of Treasury has approved Wisconsin’s plan to allocate $40 million in federal dollars to expedite efforts to expand high-speed internet statewide.
“Whether it’s finding work, running a business, going to school, or just staying connected to friends and family, high-speed internet is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity,” says Gov. Tony Evers. “The digital divide is holding our families, communities, economy, and our state back, so I’m glad to direct this funding that will help ensure we can continue building on the progress we’ve made over the last three years.”
Part of the Capital Projects Fund, a program offered by Treasury, the funding will be invested in grants and planning resources awarded by the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin to internet service providers to bring high-speed broadband infrastructure to unserved and underserved locations throughout the state.
Since 2019, Wisconsin has committed nearly $300 million towards expanding broadband, including $105 million in federal funding directed by the governor, supporting 94 projects in more than 42 counties and three tribal communities. This has or will provide more than 387,000 homes and businesses access to new or improved services.
Track broadband expansion progress here: https://maps.psc.wi.gov/portal/apps/experiencebuilder/template/?id=17311b111c9b4998a943b7ec7220c1bb&page=page_6
Additional funding for Wisconsin under the Capital Projects Fund is expected to be authorized by Treasury and announced at a later date.
More than $140 million in additional funding will be available to carry out device deployment and digital navigator projects and to improve community access to essential equipment. A diverse group of stakeholders will be eligible to participate in these initiatives, including public libraries, community centers for aging and older adults, and facilities owned by school districts and local and Tribal governments.
An announcement from the PSC that includes application information for the $40 million in funding is forthcoming.
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