HARRISBURG – Sen. Judy Ward (R-30) today announced the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) has awarded a more than $1.6 million grant to Mifflin County to bolster internet access in the community.
“Broadband access is critical in today’s modern age, and libraries play an essential role in providing it to local communities,” Ward said. “Through this grant funding, Mifflin County and its library will be better able to provide broadband access and continue in its mission to connect, educate and serve its residents.”
The project includes building renovations and enhancements to support increasing the capacity of the library to accommodate workforce, education and health care initiatives. The public library already serves as a site for education and enrichment. Investments to improve internet access in libraries and other non-profit organizations help to ensure the facilities remain critical hubs for the public’s benefit.
The grant, funded through the federally backed Multi-Purpose Community Facilities Program, is part of a $45 million competitively awarded initiative to support projects that bolster high-speed broadband access for essential services, including work, education and health monitoring, using community anchor institutions.
To maintain transparency and ensure measurable progress, PBDA requires grantees to submit quarterly and annual reports detailing the project’s advancement and compliance with federal standards. A final report, due within three months of project completion, will outline the full impact of the grant, including outcomes, sustainability efforts and equity considerations. The final 10% of funding will only be released after a thorough review of this report.
This investment is a key part of the commonwealth’s broader mission to strengthen community infrastructure and create accessible public spaces that serve as lifelines for work, education and health. By improving these facilities, Pennsylvania is ensuring its communities are well-equipped to meet current and future needs.
Residents can follow Ward on Facebook at Facebook.com/SenJudyWard and X (Twitter) @SenatorJWard for news about legislation and the 30th Senate District. Contact information for her district offices and other information can be found on her website at SenatorJudyWard.com, and constituents also can sign up for her e-newsletter at SenatorJudyWard.com/enewsletters.
Ward contact: Nathan Akers
717-787-2421