STATEHOUSE (Oct. 04, 2021) – State Rep. Ethan Manning (R-Logansport) encourages local residents and businesses with slow or no broadband internet service to apply for help using the newly launched Indiana Connectivity Program.
Manning said the program, established by legislation he sponsored, will spread high-speed broadband to unserved and underserved Hoosiers. Those without a quality internet connection can report their address and information using the Next Level Connections portal at in.gov/ocra/broadband/icp or by calling the Indiana Broadband Connect Center during business days from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (ET) at 833-639-8522.
"Access to reliable broadband in all of our communities is an achievable goal, and this new program will help us know where service is lacking throughout the entire state," said Manning, vice chair of the House Committee on Utilities, Energy and Telecommunications. "As more homes and businesses connect to high-speed internet, we will further stimulate our economy, ensure more patients can utilize telehealth services and help students with their studies."
Manning said the program will connect qualifying residents and businesses with broadband in their area and also help providers by assisting in the expense of extending service to those locations. To be eligible for assistance, a location must experience speeds of less than 25 Mbps (download) and 3 Mbps (upload).
Internet providers will review service requests and submit bids to the state to extend broadband to those eligible areas. Manning said the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs will evaluate bids and award funding. Funded projects must be completed in nine months. Hoosiers should know that submitting their location to the state does not guarantee service will be extended.
"The Indiana Connectivity Program will aid unserved and underserved Hoosiers in getting better access to reliable, high-speed broadband internet service," said Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch. "This program would not be possible without the diligent efforts of the General Assembly and the law the legislature passed earlier this year that creates this new tool to connect Hoosiers. I am grateful for our state’s continued commitment to expanding broadband to all corners of Indiana."
Hoosiers can visit in.gov/ocra/broadband/icp for more information about the program and to apply for assistance.
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State Rep. Ethan Manning (R-Logansport) represents House District 23,
which includes portions of Cass, Fulton and Miami counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
