Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced today that USDA issued a Notice of Solicitations of Applications and regulations implementing the 2008 Farm Bill for the broadband loan program.
‘Broadband investments are an essential part of Vermont’s future. These investments will increase economic opportunity and enhance community connections.’ Molly Lambert, State Director USDA Rural Development said.
The interim regulation for the Broadband Program requires that certain definitions affecting eligibility be revised and published annually by the agency in the Federal Register. For the purposes of this interim regulation, the agency has amended two definitions: Broadband Service and Broadband Lending Speed and Incumbent Service Provider. The application guide to assist in preparing of applications is available at: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/utp_farmbill.html
USDA’s Farm Bill Broadband Loan Program has invested over $122 million for Fiscal Year 2010 in Vermont communities. This loan program is fundamental to increasing access to broadband, which will enable rural communities to expand markets, compete in the global economy, and create high-paying jobs.
RUS is planning to schedule training opportunities to educate applicants on new program requirements, and how to submit complete and competitive applications. Dates for the training will be published on the USDA website shortly.
The notice is being issued prior to passage of the final appropriations act to allow potential applicants time to submit proposals and give the agency time to process applications within the current fiscal year. Upon completion of a 2011 Appropriations Act, RUS will publish a subsequent notice identifying the amount of funding available for broadband loans. Expenses incurred in developing applications will be at the applicant’s own risk.
MONTPELIER, VERMONT, March 16, 2011 ‘
USDA Rural Development announces new broadband program and interim regulations
Submitted by tim
on