$1m earmarked for North Country broadband

The Senate Appropriations Committee recently approved a funding measure containing $1 million for an initiative to bring wireless broadband access to New Hampshire’s North Country.

The approval, announced by U.S. Senator Judd Gregg, will be used to help design and build an open-access, fixed wireless infrastructure throughout Coos, Carroll and Grafton counties.

Gregg, chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, secured inclusion of the funds in the fiscal year 2007 Transportation, Treasury, Housing and Urban Development bill, which will be considered by the full Senate later this year.

“The Internet has quickly become one of the most used tools in our society,” said Gregg. “To date, much of the North Country has been unable to access the Internet at high speeds. It is critical that we provide this service to ensure the economic opportunity and vitality of this region.”

Greg Eastman, president of the Littleton Industrial Development Corp., said the announcement was “wonderful news.” — TRACIE STONE