October 13th, 2021 by WCBC Radio

Allegany County is establishing a cost-sharing program to help residents in remote areas obtain broadband internet service. The cost of the broadband access effort will be covered by federal dollars through the American Rescue Plan Act.  During the most recent meeting, the county officials approved making $500,000 available to internet service provider companies who can run last-mile broadband fiber to various remote neighborhoods. An additional $50,000 will be available for households to apply for financial assistance to complete the connection to their homes. To help offset the cost to homeowners, the county will pay half the cost for wiring the home for broadband internet. County Commission president Jake Shade said the county has long viewed broadband access a top priority and this is a major step in that direction with $50,000 made available directly to residents…