Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $1.7 million grant to the city of Las Vegas, Nevada, to expand wireless connectivity to economically disadvantaged neighborhoods. This EDA project, to be matched with $531,729 in local funds, is expected to create 300 jobs.
“President Biden is committed to ensuring all American communities have access to an affordable, reliable, high-speed internet connection,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo. “This EDA investment will support the growth of Las Vegas’ Advanced Connectivity for Community and Economic Development project, enabling individuals in the historically underserved Historic Westside neighborhood, Corridor of Hope, and Medical District to connect from home at no charge.”
“Reliable, high-speed internet access isn’t a luxury – it’s essential to everyday life,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “This project will bridge gaps in internet access within some economically disadvantaged communities in central Las Vegas, providing more equitable educational and vocational opportunities to residents of those areas.”
“In the 21st century economy, a reliable internet connection is vital for every family and business across the state, and I’ve been working in the Senate to ensure every Nevadan can take advantage of new and expanded broadband access,” said Senator Catherine Cortez Masto. “I’m thrilled to see this EDA grant awarded to the city of Las Vegas. This money will not only deliver robust Wi-Fi services to Nevadans living in historically disadvantaged communities, it will also help create over 300 jobs and spur economic growth.”
“Access to reliable, high-speed internet is critical for helping Nevadans conduct business, seek health care, and pursue an education,” said Senator Jacky Rosen. “Unfortunately, the broadband disparities in our state prevent many communities from accessing the online resources they need. I’m glad to see the Economic Development Administration awarding this funding to create jobs and support Nevadans as we work to better connect disadvantaged communities.”
“Every American should have access to high-speed internet,” said Congresswoman Dina Titus NV-01). “This has become even more evident during the pandemic as Americans shifted to telework and school closings forced students to learn remotely. Even now, millions of Americans have adjusted to lives at home – working remotely, taking online classes, and zooming with friends and family. These funds are a critical investment that will provide reliable, modern internet access to historically disadvantaged communities and households across Las Vegas.”
About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov)
The mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation’s regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA invests in communities and supports regional collaboration in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.