Gov. Josh Stein announces $50 million investment for broadband recovery program in western NC

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) – On Monday, Gov. Josh Stein announced the state is making a $50 million investment in western North Carolina for their Broadband Recovery Program.

According to the governor’s office, the state will provide grants to help internet service providers rebuild and repair broadband infrastructure destroyed by Hurricane Helene. The state wants internet service providers with infrastructure projects in the 39 Hurricane Helene disaster-designated counties to apply for funding.

“We are working hard to rebuild western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene, and that includes making sure folks have access to high-speed internet services,” Stein said in a statement. “With these investments, western North Carolinians can stay connected and more easily get back on their feet – whether seeking resources, applying for a job online, starting a business, or going to school.” 

“Connectivity is essential to resilience,” said North Carolina Department of Information Technology Secretary and State Chief Information Officer Teena Piccione. “As we help western North Carolina recover from the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene, restoring broadband service is critical to ensuring communities can rebuild stronger, safer, and more connected than before.” 

The state said broadband providers may submit applications and estimated costs for the Broadband Recovery Program online by 11:59 p.m. on Nov. 24 through NCDIT’s Broadband Infrastructure Office Data Exchange. 

For more information on this program, visit here.