West Central PA News

Senator Joe Pittman and Representative Donna Oberlander have announced that the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority has granted $1,874,000 to the Armstrong Conservation District. This funding aims to improve internet access in the community through the Armsdale Center for Agriculture and Conservation Campus Improvements project.

The initiative will introduce facilities such as a teaching kitchen, an educational greenhouse, an open garden classroom, and a free internet café. These resources are designed to support workforce development by providing training opportunities in culinary and agricultural fields.

"As we look to empower the future workforce of our region, expanding opportunities is key," Pittman stated. "In our ever-changing and growing world, ensuring rural communities also have high-speed internet access must remain an area of focus. I’m very pleased the Armsdale Center for Agriculture and Conservation is receiving this substantial support, which will go a long way to help meet current and future broadband needs."

Oberlander added, "I am excited to see the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority invest in the Armsdale Center for Agriculture and Conservation. This grant will not only enhance the campus with much-needed improvements but also provide invaluable resources to our community, such as workforce training in culinary and agricultural careers. Adding a free internet café and educational spaces will empower individuals to gain new skills and better access opportunities for their futures, helping to strengthen Armstrong County’s economy and quality of life."

This grant comes from the federally backed Multi-Purpose Community Facilities Program as part of a $45 million initiative aimed at improving high-speed broadband access across essential services like work, education, and health monitoring via community anchor institutions.

By enhancing internet accessibility in schools, libraries, recreation centers, and non-profit organizations, this investment ensures these locations continue serving as vital public hubs. The funding represents part of a broader statewide effort spanning several years to expand high-speed internet access.