The U.S. Department of Commerce recently announced 35 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act investments to help bridge the technological gap and boost economic growth across the country.
The investments, totaling $482.4 million, will fund projects to bring high-speed broadband access to household and businesses and link thousands of schools, hospitals, libraries and public safety offices to the internet.
When schools and businesses lack access to high-speed internet, they do not have access to all the educational, business and employment opportunities it provides, said U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke. The investments will help create jobs and lay the groundwork for long-term economic growth.
Access to broadband internet in the classroom can provide students with research resources they might not otherwise have. Additional technology, such as a laptop or a classroom projector can also stimulate student participation, educators say.
The recent announcement is part of the second round of $4 billion Broadband Technology Opportunities Progam, which provides grants to support broadband projects and enhance computer centers. So far, the Commerce Department has announced 216 BTOP grants and will make the rest of its awards by September 30.
