JOHNSTOWN, PA — The digital divide in Pennsylvania is shrinking as Governor Josh Shapiro this week announced a sweeping $45 million initiative to bring high-speed internet access to community hubs across the state. With 49 projects spanning 27 counties, the Multi-Purpose Community Facilities Program aims to connect more Pennsylvanians to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities at libraries, schools, and healthcare centers.
Standing at the Cambria County Library in Johnstown—a recipient of a $2 million grant—Governor Shapiro underscored the importance of reliable, affordable internet access in the modern world. “In the 21st century, access to high-speed, affordable internet isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity—and places like the Cambria County Library System help thousands of Pennsylvanians get online and access opportunity,” said Governor Shapiro. “When people are connected to reliable, affordable internet, they have better health outcomes, better education outcomes, and better economic outcomes.”
Reaching Underserved Communities
The $45 million investment, managed by the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA), is a bold step in providing communities with the resources they need to thrive. Grants will be used to fund construction and infrastructure improvements that enable public facilities to expand digital access to residents. Whether it’s providing a space for job training or supporting students with remote learning, these hubs are set to become lifelines for their communities.
Cambria County Library will use its $2 million grant to create a new learning lab and public WiFi-accessible spaces on the first floor. These facilities will support digital literacy programs, workforce development, and even telehealth services. “With this monumental gift in funding, we will be able to advance our mission to connect our community with resources that educate, entertain, and empower,” said Ashley Flynn, Executive Director of the Cambria County Library. “We have so much to look forward to, and we can’t wait to live in a future that is more connected and accessible for everyone.”
Digital Equity in the Spotlight
For many Pennsylvanians, particularly in rural and underserved areas, high-speed internet is still out of reach. This initiative represents a significant step toward leveling the playing field for residents across the state. PBDA Executive Director Brandon Carson stressed the essential nature of this effort. “Public places like our libraries, health centers, and non-profit organizations are part of the fabric of our communities, and this funding will help them better serve their residents,” said Carson. “Access to high-speed internet is essential for everyone to succeed in today’s digital world, and investing in improvements to public facilities that provide access directly where it is needed most is an important step in ensuring the success of our Commonwealth.”
The funding has been made possible through Pennsylvania’s $279 million Capital Projects Funds allocation under the American Rescue Plan Act, signaling a commitment to using federal resources to bolster local infrastructure and access.
Transforming Community Hubs
Libraries and schools are taking on new roles as community hubs in the age of connectivity. Representative Frank Burns highlighted the evolving functions of these spaces. “Libraries today do more than just lend books. They’ve become community hubs that serve people of every age, income level, and ability,” Burns said. “The Cambria County Library became the first library in the state to house a full-service CareerLink. Now, it’s building upon that partnership to expand services even more by creating dedicated spaces for the community to access broadband. Residents will be able to access resources for school, job training programs and classes, build skills, and gain access to the tools people need in their everyday life.”
The ripple effect of these investments is profound—a chance to improve health and education outcomes, close economic gaps, and provide tools for upward mobility.
A Vision for Pennsylvania’s Future
For Governor Shapiro, the initiative is about more than improved connectivity; it’s about creating opportunity and fostering equity. By ensuring Pennsylvanians can easily access education, job training, and healthcare resources, the state is securing a brighter future for all. Senator Wayne Langerholc, Jr. echoed the initiative’s wide-reaching impact. “This grant will help expand high-speed internet in our community, enabling the Cambria County Library to create a Community Hub that enhances access to information, education, healthcare, and more.”
The Shapiro administration’s push for universal digital inclusion begins here, with tangible investments in places that form the backbone of everyday communities. For Pennsylvania, this initiative sets the stage for a future where no resident is left behind in the digital age.
A full list of Multi-Purpose Community Facilities Program grants awarded across the Commonwealth is available online.
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