Matzie: $2.5 million awarded to strengthen District 16 broadband connections
Additional funding will bring project total to $4.3 million
Rep. Robert Matzie April 18, 2024 | 7:21 PM
AMBRIDGE, April 18 – New funding of more than $2.5 million from the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority will help expand high-speed internet in underserved areas of the 16th Legislative District, state Rep. Rob Matzie announced today.
Matzie, who is majority chairman of the PA House Consumer Protection, Technology and Utilities Committee and a PBDA board member, said the funding to Comcast Cable Communications LLC will expand and strengthen essential connections for residents and business owners.
“Speedy, reliable internet isn’t a luxury in today’s world – it’s the gateway to essential life connections, from jobs, education and career training to telemedicine, online shopping and other important services. But those connections are still lacking for residents in some parts of our region – including residents in rural areas who need them most.
“We worked hard to launch the Broadband Development Authority and get the infrastructure in place to bring those connections to residents and small business owners. Securing this funding is the next step on the way to making those connections happen.”
Matzie played a key role in the creation of the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority, which was established in late 2021 to oversee grant funding and infrastructure deployment to bring high-speed internet to unserved and underserved areas of the commonwealth. He also introduced first-of-its-kind legislation that has increased access to 5G technology statewide.
Additional funding from Comcast will bring total project funding to $4.3 million.