Governor Kim Reynolds has announce the award of more than $1.3 million in grants to seven Iowa broadband projects. All told, this will represent $13 million in new investments in the state’s broadband infrastructure and will cover more than 760 square miles in 12 counties. Breda Telephone Company (BTC, Inc.), doing business as Western Iowa Networks, is one of those seven recipients, with an award of $98,448. The money will be used for the proposed CR1, rural fiber optic project. “We are pleased to announce that over 7,200 homes, schools businesses and farms that previously did not have access to high-speed internet service will soon have broadband access as a result of the awarded projects,” says Jeff Franklin, Iowa Chief Information Officer. Reynolds says her budget called for $20 million dedicated to broadband infrastructure to be paired with more than $120 million in private investment, and this is a step in that direction. However, there is more to do. “That’s why I will continue to work with lawmakers next year to secure more funding to empower rural communities for generations to come,” Reynolds says. Lt. Gov., Adam Gregg, adds that constant connectivity is a key to Iowa keeping and recruiting younger people. “The grants awarded help make sure Iowa families and businesses are a step ahead as we move toward an even more interconnected economy,” he says. Other recipients include projects in Chariton, Adair, Ireton, Boyden and Hull, Sully and Wilton.
