La Crosse, WI – Today, Rep. Ron Kind announced that the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin has approved grants to help expand access to broadband in the towns of Menomonie and Red Cedar in Dunn County and Drammen in Eau Claire County. Rep. Kind sent letters in support of applications for this funding, which totals over $2.5 million.
“Far too many communities across Wisconsin have limited access to high-speed internet,” said Rep. Ron Kind. “The COVID-19 pandemic has only further highlighted the need to ensure universal access to broadband as more and more families rely on the internet for learning, conducting business, and staying connected. This funding is welcome news, and will take important steps towards closing the digital divide.”
Wisconsin ranks 36th of America’s most connected states, with 1/5 of the state’s population considered “underserved” or with limited access to high-speed internet. Over 899,000 people in Wisconsin have access to only one internet provider, with nearly 200,000 people living in communities without any wired internet providers.
Rep. Kind is a member of the House Rural Broadband Task Force, and has continuously supported legislation to expand broadband access for all Wisconsinites.
