The Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently announced the communities across the nation that will receive assistance in using broadband service to revitalize their towns through the Cool & Connected program.
“Broadband has helped rural communities across the country gain access to improved health care, open the door to educational services and expand business and social opportunities,” Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said. “The new Cool and Connected program will help these small towns use broadband to provide new opportunities for people and businesses in rural areas.”
The program, which is one of the Obama Administration’s community-based initiatives, connects communities with experts who can help them develop strategies and action plans to use broadband service to promote their main streets and neighborhoods. The program will boost local economies by helping them attract investment, and diversify their economies.
“Cool & Connected supports community revitalization in rural America,” EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy said. “By supporting economic growth through broadband investments, rural communities are creating vibrant, thriving places that improve human health and the environment.”
The pilot phase communities are: Georgetown, Delaware; Leon, Iowa; Montrose, Colorado; Toledo, Washington; and Tullahoma Tennessee.
Alerts Sign-up