A news release today from USDA stated that, “Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue today announced that USDA is awarding four loans to help provide broadband service in rural portions of California, Illinois, Iowa and Texas.
“‘Too many rural areas still lack access to robust, affordable broadband services that can create jobs and boost rural economies,’ Perdue said. ‘These broadband infrastructure investments will connect rural communities to a digital future and will help expand access to high-speed internet, health care, educational and business services in rural communities.’
“Perdue announced the broadband loans after celebrating Infrastructure Week with President Trump in Cincinnati yesterday. He is meeting with the White House Infrastructure Council today.”
Today’s update added that, “Illinois’ Viola Home Telephone Co. will use a $3.3 million loan to construct 104 miles of fiber cable and provide supporting equipment to deliver enhanced telecommunications services to its rural subscribers.
“USDA is providing these loans through Rural Development’s Telecommunications Program. This program funds infrastructure and equipment to deliver broadband and distance learning and telemedicine services throughout rural America.”
