Rhode Island gets $1.2 million broadband stimulus grant
The NTIA awarded $1.2 million to Rhode Island to expand broadband Internet access at 71 public libraries across the state. The grant is part of BTOP Round 1 funding for public computer centers. The NTIA has set aside $150 million more in Round 2 for public computer centers.
The grant will go to OSHEAN Inc., a consortium of not-for-profit organizations, which will use the funding to replace 327 existing computers and add more than 403 new workstations in Rhode Island libraries. The expanded capacity is expected to allow the libraries to serve more than 6,900 additional users per week.
“This Recovery Act funding will help more Rhode Island libraries upgrade their technology, expand computer training programs, and provide internet access for the public,” said Senator Jack Reed. “This funding comes as libraries are playing an increasingly important role in our communities by offering such assistance as help with writing resumes and searching and applying for jobs online.”
“The computers and broadband internet access provided by this $1.245 million economic recovery grant will offer underserved communities around the state invaluable access and training to assist Rhode Islanders with everything from job searches to educational enrichment. This investment will expand opportunities and help move our libraries and our workforce into the 21st Century,” said Senator Sheldon Whitehouse.
“In our modern economy, computer literacy and internet access are critical to every member of Rhode Island’s workforce. By connecting small businesses and individuals alike, the internet is a critical driver of innovation, job creation, and workforce productivity. These funds will create greater opportunities for all Rhode Islanders and position the State to compete more effectively for years to come,” said Representative Patrick Kennedy.
“Expanding free access to upgraded technology is so important for growing the economy of our state,” said Representative Jim Langevin. “The funding comes at a critical point, as people as people look for employment, explore small business opportunities and work to increase their skills. I look forward to following the progress of this project with OSHEAN.”
This project will also:
(1) Create 10 mobile computer centers, which will be used to bring computer training and access into underserved and rural communities with high rates of unemployment.
(2) Expand statewide computer training programs with streaming video to other libraries and offer technology classes taught in multiple languages, including Spanish.
(3) Provide targeted training and computer access opportunities for children, underprivileged high-school students, adults, and limited English-speaking populations.
(4) Expand access to educational programs offered by the University of Rhode Island, the Pell Marine Science Library, and community colleges.
NTIA received more than 1,800 applications during the first BTOP funding round and is currently awarding grants on a rolling basis. Including today’s announcement, NTIA has now awarded 17 grants totaling more than $200 million under the program. A second round of BTOP applications will be accepted through March 15, 2010. In addition, NTIA has awarded $97 million in mapping and planning grants to 51 states and territories.
Related posts:
Loading ...
[...] Broadband stimulus grant leaves RI munis uninterested? [...]