Port of Whitman will expand broadband infrastructure with $9.8 million in fed funds
By KLEW Web StaffCOLFAX – Port of Whitman will use $9.8 million in federal stimulus money to expand middle-mile fiber optic infrastructure to the unserved and underserved rural citizens in the areas of Whitman County. “Port of Whitman is thrilled to have these dedicated broadband infrastructure funds to help bridge the digital divide in our area," said Joe Poire, Executive Director of Port of Whitman. "This will help provide our citizens and our rural region the same opportunities for economic growth that you see in metropolitan areas. We thank NoaNet for giving us the opportunity to partner with them on this grant. We also thank the participating Whitman County libraries, medical facilities and government partners without whom we could not have been successful.” According to the Port, the primary purpose of the grant is to build a fiber bridge to targeted medical facilities and libraries in Whitman County over the next three years. The new fiber lines will link the facilities to regional and statewide hubs so advanced telecommunication services may be brought into the counties to benefit research, learning and health applications locally. Once the fiber infrastructure is in place, private service providers (last-mile fiber builders) will have the opportunity to create fiber or wireless connections to residents and businesses. This connectivity will further allow for new job opportunities and enhance the local economy. Most Popular |
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