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.

Today, the Public Authorities Control Board approved $1,188,748 in funding from the New NY Broadband Program for the Pattersonville Telephone Company that will bring high-speed internet to homes and businesses in areas of Montgomery and Schenectady Counties represented by Assemblyman Santabarbara.

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 to advocate for this funding. “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. “We must support our upstate communities with the modern tools to compete in today’s world,” Santabarbara added. “This funding to expand access to affordable high-speed broadband in these areas is a smart investment that will boost the local economy, help our schools prepare students and improve the quality of life for residents.”

Santabarbara encourages private sector partners to apply for funding through the New NY Broadband Program by visiting http://nysbroadband.ny.gov. “The funding announced today is welcome news, but there’s more to do to ensure that high-speed broadband becomes a reality in more of our region,” Santabarbara said.