(The Center Square) – The United States Department of the Treasury recently awarded Oregon $156.7 million to expand broadband infrastructure across the state.
The funding comes from the American Rescue Plan Act Capital Projects Fund.
The Oregon Broadband Office, housed within Business Oregon, will receive the funding. It will provide high-speed internet access to over 17,000 new locations in Oregon.
“This unprecedented funding will strengthen Oregon’s broadband infrastructure and expand access to quality internet service,” Governor Tina Kotek said in a press release. “This award, which is part of President Biden’s Investing in America effort, will help rural and low-income communities across Oregon develop high-quality modern broadband infrastructure and expand access to telehealth, job opportunities, education, and so much more.”
Sophorn Cheang, Business Oregon Director, added that the funding will help improve the state’s digital equity.
“This award is the latest in federal support towards broadband access and will enable Oregon to continue our work to close the digital divide and provide digital equity for all Oregonians,” Cheang said. “We look forward to collaborating with our local and regional partners across the state as we put these funds to work for Oregon.”
More information on the Oregon Broadband Office is available here.
