RICHMOND, Va. — Author's note: the video above first aired in July 2021.
Gov. Ralph Northam says Virginia has received a record number of local and private sector applications to match state investments in broadband connectivity and the state expects more than $2 billion in total broadband funding.
News outlets report that Virginia aims to expand high-speed internet access to more than 250,000 homes and businesses, using federal emergency aid to close the gap in opportunity.
Northam announced Tuesday that Virginia has received requests for $943 million in grants to fund 57 projects to expand access to broadband telecommunications.
The state expects to use $850 million in federal and state budget funds, mostly American Rescue Plan Act aid.
It would be matched by $1.15 billion in private and local government funds.