Gov. Kathy Hochul, joined by U.S. Sens. Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand and U.S. Rep. Paul Tonko, on Thursday, April 30, announced the start of a $542 million effort to expand high-speed internet to 58,617 unserved and underserved homes and businesses across New York.
The initiative is part of the federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment program and targets the final 1% of locations statewide still lacking reliable service.
Funding and scope
The project includes $287 million in federal funding, $7 million in state funding and $248 million from private providers. It stems from $664.6 million allocated to New York through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
Nine internet service providers will participate, using a mix of fiber, fixed wireless and satellite technologies to expand coverage, largely in rural areas.
Focus on affordability
State officials said the effort complements New York’s Affordable Broadband Act, which requires low-cost internet options for qualifying households, including plans starting at $15 per month.
Officials emphasized the goal is not only expanding access but ensuring long-term affordability for residents and businesses.
Next steps
The state will now submit provisional awards for environmental review at the state and federal levels before construction begins.
Officials said the program marks a major step in closing the digital divide and expanding access to education, health care and economic opportunities statewide.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: NY launches $542M plan to expand high-speed internet statewide
Reporting by New York Connect Team, USA Today Network / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
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