Evers announces $100 million to expand broadband
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Gov. Tony Evers says the state will be using $100 million in federal coronavirus stimulus funding to award grants for expanding broadband internet access in Wisconsin.
The federal funding is in addition to nearly $200 million in broadband expansion proposals Evers made in his state budget, which is pending before the Republican-controlled Legislature.
“I declared 2021 the Year of Broadband Access because everyone in this state should have access to reliable internet service,” Evers said. “Between our Badger Bounceback agenda investments and these federal funds, we’re taking a major step toward connecting everyone in our state.”
Evers said Tuesday that the Wisconsin Public Service Commission will award the $100 million in federal funding based on a model similar to an existing broadband expansion grant program.
Applications will be made available June 1, along with more details about the grants, with a deadline of July 27.
COPYRIGHT 2022 THE ASSOCIATED PRESS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THIS MATERIAL MAY NOT BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST, REWRITTEN OR REDISTRIBUTED.
