The U.S. Department of Treasury has approved Wisconsin’s plans to use $140 million of federal funds to expand high-speed internet.
The funding will support two new grant programs, the Flexible Facilities Program and the Digital Connectivity and Navigators Program. These will support high-quality, multi-purpose community facilities, and help address high-speed internet access and affordability in the state.
“We’ve come a long way to expand access to high-speed internet access in Wisconsin and build the local infrastructure needed to close the digital divide,” says Gov. Tony Evers.
Since 2019, the state has allocated more than $345 million in state and federal funds to expand high-speed internet to benefit more than 395,000 homes and businesses.
“With these new programs, we will have more opportunities to invest in the services that ensure both Wisconsinites and our state are prepared to meet the needs of the 21st century,” Evers says.
But according to recent estimates from the Federal Communications Commission, more work remains. The FCC found more than 224,000 unserved locations and more than 198,000 underserved locations in the state.
The two new grant programs will help address many challenges laid bare by the pandemic, especially in rural areas.
Flexible Facilities Program
The Department of Administration will award up to $107 million for local and tribal governments. Dollars go toward constructing or improving buildings, and purchasing digital connectivity equipment. Eligible facilities include: public libraries, community centers, and other institutions designed to enable work, education, and health monitoring.
The grant announcement and associated application materials will come out in early 2024, according to the guv’s office. Interested parties can sign up to get email updates for the Flexible Facilities Program by emailing [email protected].
Digital Connectivity and Navigators Program
The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin will award up to $33 million to nonprofit organizations and other eligible entities. Dollars go toward deploying computing devices, installing Wi-Fi equipment in targeted apartment buildings, and providing digital navigation services to make use of the devices.
“Access to infrastructure alone is not enough to bridge the digital divide,” says PSC Chairperson Rebecca Cameron Valcq. “Connecting people with crucial tools and skills through these programs will allow us to make sure all can participate in the benefits of a more connected state and economy.”
More information and applications for funding will be available in the spring of 2024.