In December, Governor Northam announced the allocation of $722 million to provide universal broadband infrastructure in 70 localities, which will close 90% of Virginia’s digital divide. The funding—from the Virginia Telecommunication Initiative (VATI) and the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)—will support 35 projects. One of those projects is the Bath-Highland Network Authority 2022 Universal Broadband Project, which was awarded over $7 million. The CSPDC was the applicant on behalf of the Bath-Highland Network Authority and MGW is the co-applicant to bring universal broadband coverage to Bath and Highland counties.
- Total project cost: $10,990,000
- Total matching funds: $3,113,200 (28.3% of the total project)
- MGW is providing $2,013,200
- Bath County is providing $800,000 in local ARPA funds
- Highland County is providing $300,000 in local ARPA funds
- Total VATI funding request: $7,876,800
- Total locations served: 2,470 locations (Bath: 2,156 and Highland: 314)