Congressman Gonzalez Encourages Central and South Texans to Apply for Additional $550 Million in Funding For USDA ReConnect Pilot Program

Statement

Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) is encouraging eligible Central and South Texans to apply for the additional $550 million in federal grants and loans announced by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for the ReConnect Pilot Program. The ReConnect Pilot Program's mission is to help close the digital divide by providing grants and loans for the costs of construction, improvement, or acquisition of facilities and equipment needed to provide broadband service in eligible rural areas.

The application for this funding opens January 31, 2020 and closes March 16, 2020. The funding will be equally divided, with $200 million given in the form of grants and $200 million awarded as low-interest loans.

"Reliable broadband is critical for the success of businesses, schools and those who depend on the internet in rural South Texas communities," said Congressman Gonzalez. "I encourage those who need access to connectivity to apply for these federal funds. I will continue to advocate for rural communities and infrastructure to level-the-playing field and close the digital divide."

Those eligible for funding include:

-State and local governments
-Non-profit entities
-For-profit corporations
-Limited liability companies
-Cooperative or mutual organizations

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