IRVINE, Pa. – On Tuesday, U.S. Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson announced North Central Pennsylvania Regional Planning and Development Commission (North Central) will be the recipient of an Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant in the amount of $99,500.
The funds will be used to conduct a regional broadband vertical asset inventory, along with other speed tests.
“In today’s world, communities cannot grow and businesses cannot flourish without reliable broadband,” said Thompson.
“North Central is committed to bridging the gap when it comes to broadband access and this grant will assist with continued development throughout our region,” added Thompson.
Over the next two years, North Central will coordinate with economic development partners, school districts and other agencies to help support broadband planning in areas where service gaps remain.
“Broadband investments help strengthen our communities that have long suffered disproportionate economic distress and job loss, and many are now rebuilding to become more competitive in the global economy,” said Ed Matts, director of information systems for North Central.
ABOUT NORTH CENTRAL
The North Central Pennsylvania Regional Planning and Development Commission serves the public and private sector through planning and implementation of community, economic and transportation development throughout the six-county region of Cameron, Clearfield, Elk, Jefferson, McKean and Potter Counties.
ABOUT THE EDA
The Economic Development Administration is a bureau within the U.S. Department of Commerce that leads the federal economic development agenda by promoting innovation and competitiveness, preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy.