Wisconsin receives nearly $6 million to expand high-speed internet access across state

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers joined the Public Commission Service of Wisconsin (PSC) on Monday to announce the state will receive nearly $6 million to put toward the establishment of reliable high-speed internet for all residents.

The grant money, totaling $5,952,197, was awarded by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, which falls under the Internet for All initiative within the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law signed last year by President Joe Biden.

“Digital equity is crucial to ensure that everyone in Wisconsin has access to healthcare, education, and remote work opportunities,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo.

Evers’ staff explained the money will be used to “deploy and upgrade high-speed internet statewide.”

“Unserved households and businesses lacking 25 megabits per second (Mbps) download and 3 Mbps upload will be considered the highest priority under the BEAD Program.”

Additionally, the state is expected to establish a “digital equity plan” to build from previous internet expansion efforts and set the course for the future.

More information will be released throughout the winter, according to Evers’ staff.

Wisconsin residents can check the PSC website and the Internet for All hub for updates.