Grant Funds Made Available for Broadband

BY KAY SHIPMAN FARMWEEK

Illinois broadband is getting a $47 million boost for 22 broadband projects. The funding was announced Wednesday by the governor and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.

The second round of funding includes $23 million in state Connect Illinois grants matched by $24 million in nonstate money, a $47 million investment. The projects will expand broadband access to about 13,000 homes, businesses, farms and community institutions across Illinois.

The Broadband Office also announced another $350 million in funding is available for a third round of grants that will be accepted and awarded on a rolling basis through 2024 or until the funds are depleted.

Two projects in our area will receive funds. They include:

Bspeedy Wireless in Jasper County and four other counties, a total of $152,108

Charter Spectrum-Nichols Woods in Clay and three other counties, a total of $50,750.