Manchin Announces $1.6 Million from American Rescue Plan for Broadband Expansion in Randolph, Tucker Counties

Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV), member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced $1,681,161 from the Economic Development Administration (EDA) Coal Communities Commitment Program for the Woodlands Development Group in Elkins, West Virginia. The funding was made possible through the American Rescue Plan and will support broadband expansion in Randolph and Tucker counties. The project is expected to create 75 jobs, save 82 jobs and generate $13.8 million in private investment.

“Access to affordable, reliable broadband is vital to the success and growth of our communities across West Virginia, which is why I am pleased the EDA is supporting the Woodlands Development Group’s efforts to boost connectivity in Randolph and Tucker Counties,” said Senator Manchin. “West Virginia continues to see the benefits of critical American Rescue Plan investments that spur economic development and create good-paying, long-term jobs, and I look forward to seeing the positive impacts of this funding for our communities.”  

The EDA’s Coal Communities Commitment Program was made possible through the American Rescue Plan and supports coal-reliant communities across the country through targeted local investments. The investments drive economic expansion and job creation in new industry sectors while accelerating recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.