State grants help expand internet access to more Clay County residents, businesses

STATEHOUSE (April 29, 2022) – Fast and reliable internet is coming to more homes and businesses in Clay County thanks to over $4.2 million in state broadband grants, according to local lawmakers.

Indiana recently awarded a total of $189 million for 154 broadband projects around the state as part of the third round of the Next Level Connections Broadband Grant Program. In total, more than 52,900 homes and businesses across 80 counties will benefit from the program supported and funded by the state legislature.

"These investments are the latest example of Indiana's commitment to ensuring all Hoosiers have access to reliable broadband, regardless of address," said Morrison, a member of the House Utilities, Energy and Telecommunications Committee. "Expanding this service provides an essential tool for work, school and connecting to others."

State Rep. Bob Heaton (R-Terre Haute) said in addition to the $189 million awarded, 35 telecommunications providers and utility cooperatives contributed more than $239 million in matching funds, resulting in more than $429 million being invested.

"Projects like these could be a real game-changer for rural residents and businesses," said Heaton, a member of the House Ways and Means Committee. "It's been great to see the state work with private businesses to bring broadband to so many more Hoosiers."

Two upcoming projects will help expand broadband in Clay County:

• Joink: This project will expand broadband access to 32 households and 11 businesses or organizations in Clay County. The requested grant amount is $1,725,644, with a local match of $1,001,348 for a total project cost of $2,726,992.
  
  
• Spectrum Mid-America: This project will expand broadband access to 231 households and seven businesses or organizations in Clay County. The requested grant amount is $2,538,514, with a local match of $1,269,016, for a total project cost of $3,807,530.

"Increasing broadband access to unserved and underserved areas is a top priority," said State Rep. Beau Baird (R-Greencastle), also a member of the House Ways and Means Committee. "These expansions will help position Indiana for continued economic growth."

The Next Level Connections Broadband Grant Program provides funding of up to $5 million per project to expand broadband service to unserved areas. To be eligible for funding, applicants must also contribute at least a 20% match.

For more information about the projects and grants, visit in.gov/ocra.

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State Rep. Beau Baird (R-Greencastle) represents House District 44, which includes
all of Putnam County and portions of Clay, Morgan, Owen and Parke counties.
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State Rep. Bob Heaton (R-Terre Haute) represents House District 46,
which includes portions of Clay, Monroe, Owen and Vigo counties.
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State Rep. Alan Morrison (R-Brazil) represents House District 42, which includes
all of Vermillion County and portions of Clay, Fountain, Parke, Vigo and Warren counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.