The effort to bring high-speed internet service to underserved communities throughout Washington County continues. The Washington County Authority is in charge of the program and is requesting proposals for other parts of the county. Lots of companies are interested in getting involved with this initiative, and we are expecting to see more projects being approved this year.
Within the past few weeks, the county commissioners have approved multiple contracts with DQE Communications. The approval of these contracts will allow the company to expand their internet service to three villages along Route 40 at a cost of over $450,000. The county will use American Rescue Plan funds to pay $109,772 towards installation along the Route 40 corridor, while DQE will contribute $346,500 for the project.
The expansion will benefit 199 houses and 22 businesses in the villages of Glyde, Scenery Hill, and Beallsville. At this time, it is unclear when the expansion into this area will begin or be completed. CCJ will continue to follow this program and provide updates as we receive them. For more information, contact John Timney, the Executive Director of the Washington County Authority, at john.timney@co.washington.pa.us or 724-250-6418. You may also contact our Field Program Coordinator Paul at paul@centerforcoalfieldjustice.org or call 724-229-3550 ext. 8 to discuss the program and or how you can get involved.
