We are currently in phase three of the initiative to bring broadband services to underserved communities all over Washington County, and the second project, which will extend broadband services to approximately 680 rural homes and businesses in Hanover Township and Burgettstown has been awarded to Comcast. In total this project will cost $8.1 million and will be partially funded using the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, with Comcast covering the remainder. Pictured below are the areas included in this project.
The approval of this project represents the work of the Washington County Board of Commissioners, the Washington County Authority, and four different internet service providers to extend broadband services to 2,300 of its residents, businesses, and other locations throughout ten localities/townships, with a total cost of almost $20 million. So far, the vendors have contributed over $10 million and the county has leveraged $9 million from the ARPA funds.
There are more projects to come that are awaiting approval, and CCJ will be providing updates as we receive new information. For further information, please contact our field Program Coordinator Paul at 724-229-7333 or paul@centerforcoalfieldjustice.org.