Middle Mile Grant Program

Agency: Commerce – National Telecommunications and Information Administration

 

Description:

Establishes a fund for the construction, improvement or acquisition of so-called “middle mile infrastructure” to connect local high-speed broadband networks with national or regional networks. Eligible applicants include States, political subdivisions of a State, Tribal governments, technology companies, electric utilities, utility cooperatives, public utility districts, telecommunications companies, telecommunications cooperatives, nonprofit foundations, nonprofit corporations, nonprofit institutions, nonprofit associations, regional planning councils, Native entities, or economic development authorities.

Bill Section:

60401

New or Existing:

New

Potential Cost:     

$1,000,000,000

Timeline:

Until expended.

TCS Notes:

Grants can cover no more than 70 percent of the cost of any individual project (Secretary can waive this provision for grants made to Tribal Governments and Native entities).