FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PSC Initiates Grant Program to help Bring Broadband to Libraries & Schools
Lincoln, May 20, 2020 – The Nebraska Public Service
Commission (PSC) has issued an Order establishing
the E-Rate Special Construction State Matching
Grant Program as a way to help facilitate the build-
out of new fiber to Nebraska libraries and schools.
The State program is designed to maximize federal
support through the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC), E-Rate Special Construction
Program, which provides funding for broadband
connections in libraries and schools across the
country.
“Establishing a state effort that would provide a match
for the federal E-Rate program was part of the
recommendations of the Rural Broadband Task Force,”
said Commission Chair and Task Force member Mary
Ridder. “Libraries and schools are often technology
hubs for rural communities. We are excited to be able
to help incentivize new fiber construction to these
vital public institutions.”
The E-Rate Special Construction State Matching Grant
Program (NUSF-117) will make available one million
dollars in support to be allocated over the four years
of the program to applicants approved by both the
state and federal programs.
Libraries and schools that are not currently fiber-
connected and interested in applying for the State
Matching Grant Program must meet the qualifications
and complete the application contained in the Order
(NUSF 117) issued by the PSC. Applications must be
submitted by mid-December, with the PSC issuing
notices of approval by mid-January.
Commissioner Ridder said, “We encourage any libraries
and schools that lack a fiber connection to consider
participating in this effort as we work to provide
broadband to the unserved and underserved in our state.”
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Contact:
Deb Collins- Media & Communications Mgr.
(402) 471-0226
deb.collins@nebraska.gov
