Schoharie Co. awarded $30 million grant for broadband

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- After receiving a $30 million Municipal Infrastructure Program grant, broadband coverage for rural communities in Schoharie County will reach 100%. Over 5,000 rural locations in the county will establish broadband coverage through the funding.

Southern Tier 8 Broadband Collaborative, Schoharie County's early 2015 feasibility study, and the community impact insights contributed to the success of the broadband coverage project. The project aligns with the Schoharie Economic Enterprise Corp's (SEEC) Digital Revolution strategy, which aims to unite the county's agricultural heritage and modern technology.

Better broadband coverage in the county will address the educational, healthcare, and workforce fields in underserved areas. The county also expects economic growth to support the SEEC's initiatives.

Schoharie County Administrator Korsah Akumfi said the grant is a transformative advance in broadband coverage for the county. "With it, we ensure that every household, business, and educational institution will have access to reliable, high-speed internet, leveling the digital playing field for all our residents," Akumfi said.