Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $2.8 million grant to the city of Paso Robles, California, to install fiber optic cable to expand broadband access and increase reliability. This EDA project will be matched with $707,489 in local funds.
“President Biden is committed to expanding broadband access throughout the country, especially in rural and underserved communities,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo. “This EDA investment in Paso Robles makes the city more competitive for business and builds resiliency to future economic disruptions.”
“EDA is pleased to support the city of Paso Robles in its efforts to expand broadband access to attract and retain business,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “This project will support the installation of approximately 11,500 feet of new fiber optic cable in the city’s existing underground conduit, and the installation of 52,500 feet of additional fiber optic cable in a new underground conduit to support the needs of the local business community.”
“This investment is a reflection of our shared commitment to bring California’s economy roaring back,” said Governor Gavin Newsom. “The funds will benefit small business in Paso Robles and the community by expanding broadband access, leading to a stronger, more resilient local economy for all.”
“Millions of rural Americans are held back by slow broadband or a complete lack of access, and my district is no exception. Reliable broadband allows our economy to grow, expands access to online health and learning opportunities, and improves quality of life,” said Congressman Salud Carbajal (CA-24). “I’m grateful the U.S. Department of Commerce is investing $2.8 million to help the city of Paso Robles on the Central Coast install fiber optic cables that will improve and expand broadband connectivity. This is a huge step to ensure every member of our community has what they need to succeed in the 21st century.”
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.