Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara announced new funding in the state’s ongoing efforts to expand high-speed broadband internet service to communities across Upstate New York.

The New NY Broadband Program’s Round 2 funding was announced by the state this week and will bring high-speed internet to 32,737 homes and businesses in Capital Region. The grants are projected to drive $49 million in total broadband investment, with a $39.2 million commitment from the state.

Assemblyman Santabarbara and his office have been working closely with local elected officials, community organizations and individuals to gauge the broadband needs in the 111th Assembly District, hosting several regional hearings.

Benefitting from the broadband buildout as part of the Round 2 funding are the towns of Princetown, Duanesburg and Rotterdam in Schenectady County. The town of Princetown will receive a State grant of $321,661 with private matching funds for a total investment of $402,040. The town of Duanesburg will receive a State grant of $300,683 with private matching funds for a total investment of $375,820. The town of Rotterdam will receive a State grant of $118,875 with private matching funds for a total investment of $148,580.

“The state’s commitment to expanding this critical piece of 21st century infrastructure will help spur job creation, improve education and attract new business, especially in rural areas like ours where adequate broadband access is limited or not available,” Assemblyman Santabarbara said. “The funding announced this week is welcome news, but I’ll continue to work with our local communities to ensure that high-speed broadband becomes a reality in more of our region.”

The Broadband Program Office is currently finalizing a Request for Proposals for the Program’s upcoming Round 3, which will launch next month. Santabarbara encourages private sector partners to apply for funding through the New NY Broadband Program by visiting http://nysbroadband.ny.gov.