Erie County Times

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) announced today that Windstream is being awarded a total of $921,997 to increase access to reliable, high-speed internet in Erie County, according to state Sen. Dan Laughlin (R-49).

"When many people from outside of the area think of Erie, they think of the city and the bayfront and sometimes miss the fact that the majority of Erie County is comprised of rural communities," said Laughlin. "My constituents who live in these areas have the same broadband and internet needs as anyone else, and I’m proud to announce this funding to help close the connectivity gap."

Made feasible by the federally funded Broadband Infrastructure Program, a total of $200 million in competitive grants was awarded for projects across the state lacking 25/3 Mbps internet service, as highlighted by the senator.

To ensure transparency and efficiency, the PBDA mandates quarterly and annual progress reports from grantees, accompanied by comprehensive guidance on state and federal requirements and technical support. All funds must be utilized by Dec. 31, 2026. Grantees will be held accountable for the prudent expenditure of awarded funds. The PBDA can claw back any unused or misused funds.

"This inaugural round of grants represents a significant milestone in the PBDA’s broader initiative to close the digital divide since the General Assembly established the PBDA in 2021."

For more state-related news and information, constituents can visit Laughlin’s website at www.senatorlaughlin.com or follow him on Facebook and Twitter @senatorlaughlin.

Contact: David Kozak 717-787-8927