02.21.23

Durbin, Duckworth Announce More Than $18 Million From USDA Reconnect Program To Bring High-Speed Internet Access To Communities Across Rural Illinois

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today announced $18,066,450 in federal funding through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) ReConnect Grant program to bring high-speed internet access to residents living and working across Warren, Henderson, Hancock, and McDonough counties.

“The pandemic exacerbated the digital divide in rural communities across Illinois and the entire nation,” said Durbin. “Investing in high-speed internet equips residents and businesses with the tools needed to succeed in today’s economy while improving their overall quality of life. Senator Duckworth and I will continue advocating for broadband accessibility and equity for all Illinoisans no matter their zip code.”

“This federal investment will have a real impact as over 1,500 Illinoisans, 41 businesses and 274 farms across four counties will soon experience more affordable high-speed internet,” said Duckworth. “As we’ve seen throughout the pandemic, we know that internet access is crucial for public health, the success of small businesses, educating our children, improving quality of life and so much more. I’m proud to join Senator Durbin in this announcement, and I will continue to advocate for improved infrastructure for working families all across Illinois and our nation.”

This federal investment will be used to deploy a fiber-to-the-premises network.  This network will connect 1,583 people, 41 businesses, and 274 farms to high-speed internet across the four counties.

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