After weeks of delays, Pennsylvania’s application to the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) grant program has officially been approved by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). The $711 million allocation will expand broadband access to unserved Pennsylvanians, particularly in rural communities across the Commonwealth.
Many of these Pennsylvanians live in the more rural parts of the Harrisburg region, including northern Dauphin and Perry counties. Infrastructure development, and specifically broadband access, are significant legislative priorities for the Chamber. Universal internet access throughout the region will massively benefit our area students, families, employers, and employees as technological advancements become more standard in business and education. In turn, this will attract more businesses and families to establish roots here, growing the regional economy.
After approval from the NTIA, Pennsylvania now must finalize funding details and receive terms and conditions form the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) before the funds are released.
About the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC
For 140 years, the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC has served as the region’s catalyst for economic prosperity. The organization combines business, community, and economic development services to enhance the region’s vitality and livability. The Chamber is a five-star accredited chamber through the U.S. Chamber of Commerce—a distinction held by fewer than 1 percent of chambers nationwide. CREDC is the Certified Economic Development Organization (CEDO) approved by the Commonwealth’s Department of Community and Economic Development to perform economic development activities using Pennsylvania’s funding programs in Cumberland, Dauphin, and Perry counties.
