Governor Eric J. Holcomb yesterday announced $51 million for 50 broadband infrastructure expansion projects across the state as a part of the second round of the Next Level Connections Broadband Grant Program.
“Lt. Governor Crouch and I have been dedicated to improving internet access for years, and now COVID has only made the need for affordable, dependable broadband more apparent,” Gov. Holcomb said. “This latest round of grants will give more Hoosiers access to more affordable, quality internet regardless of where they live, work or go to school.”
This second round of funding will provide broadband infrastructure to more than 10,590 homes and commercial locations across 32 counties. A map marking both rounds one and two is attached to this press release.
The program allows broadband service providers and utility cooperatives to apply for up to $5 million to expand service to unserved areas if they provide at least a 20 percent match. Unserved areas are those without at least one telecommunication provider offering at least 10 mbps download and 1 mbps upload. Proposed projects must provide a minimum level of service at actual speeds of 25 mbps download and 3 mbps upload.
The following applicants will provide broadband service in unserved areas throughout Indiana in the second round:
Eastern Indiana WIFI
Grant County
This project will serve 12 households and one anchor institution in eastern Grant County. The requested grant amount is $31,983, with a local match of $8,502 for a total project cost of $40,485.
Eastern Indiana WIFI
Grant County
This project will serve 103 households and 28 businesses in Monroe and Jefferson Townships in Grant County. The requested grant amount is $251,756, with a local match of $66,922, for a total project cost of $318,678.
