Dr. Joyce Announces Appalachian Regional Commission Grant for Bedford County

Statement

Washington, DC -- Today, Congressman John Joyce M.D. (PA-13) announced that Bedford County, Pennsylvania would receive a POWER (Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce Economic Revitalization) Initiative grant for $745,588 from the Appalachian Regional Commission. The funding will be used to support economic diversification and empower job growth.

"This grant will go directly to developing broadband deployment in our Bedford County Community," said Dr. Joyce. "I am grateful to the Appalachian Regional Commission for their work to develop this critical infrastructure that will help bridge the digital divide while supporting students and small businesses."

"The downturn of the coal industry has impacted economies across Appalachia. That's why ARC's POWER initiative helps to leverage regional partnerships and collaborations to support efforts to create a more vibrant economic future for coal-impacted communities," said ARC Federal Co-Chair Gayle Manchin. "Many of the projects we announced today will invest in educating and training the Appalachian workforce, nurturing entrepreneurship, and supporting infrastructure--including broadband access. These investments are critical in leveling the economic playing field so Appalachian communities can thrive."

Since 2015, the Appalachian Regional Commission has invested over $287 million through the POWER Initiative. These investments support comprehensive strategies to strengthen our region's economic outlook through job training, education, and broadband development.

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