Vice-President Joe Biden visits Seneca High School

The Wattsburg Area School District was privileged to host Vice President Joe Biden on July 1st as he launched a tour of rural America by announcing the availability of $4 billion in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act loans and grants to help bring broadband service to un-served or underserved communities across America.   This is the first round of Recovery Act funding designed to expand broadband access to help bridge the technological divide and create jobs building out the internet structure. 

Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, Commerce Secretary Gary Locke, and Congresswoman Kathy Dahlkemper joined Biden on stage at Seneca High School as he spoke about the benefits that broadband could bring to rural communities.

                “ Today’s  announcement is the first step towards realizing President Obama’s vision of a nationwide 21st century communications infrastructure- one that encourages economic growth, enhances America’s global competitiveness, and helps address some of America’s most pressing challenges,” said Vice President Biden. 

                “Access to high-speed Internet is no longer a luxury, but an essential tool to compete in this 21st century economy.  The availability of technology is critical to attracting the business and development that will create good paying jobs that stay in the United States, said Congresswoman Dahlkemper.  “I’m so pleased that Vice President Biden and the administration chose Western Pennsylvania to announce this critical broadband initiative.”

                Applications for funding broadband will be accepted beginning July 14th through 5:00 p.m. on August 14th.  The complete details of the Notice of funding Availability are available at www.broadband.usa.gov.

 

Biden Video