SRDC Kicks Off Broadband Project in SW Minnesota

Press Release–Immediate

SRDC Kicks Off Broadband Project in Southwest Minnesota

Slayton, MN—The Southwest Regional Development Commission (SRDC) has been named as a partner in the Blandin Foundation’s Minnesota Intelligent Rural Communities (MIRC) project, which will facilitate broadband deployment and use in rural areas of the state.  The $6.4 million, ARRA-funded project will support promotion and implementation of broadband for economic development across Minnesota.

“Southwest Minnesota is seeing great local investment in broadband infrastructure,” said SRDC Chairman Gary Sorenson.  “Now we need to use that infrastructure to be competitive in the global economy.”

The Blandin Foundation was awarded funding by the federal Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP) to reach out to rural Minnesota through education, training, technical assistance and removing barriers to broadband adoption.  MIRC partners include University of Minnesota Extension, MN Learning Commons, DEED Workforce Centers, MN Renewable Energy Marketplace, University of Minnesota-Crookston EDA Center, PCs for People, and regional development organizations statewide.  There are 11 broadband demonstration communities as well, including Windom and Worthington in Southwest Minnesota.

SRDC provides professional expertise and leadership to enhance regional opportunities in Southwest Minnesota.   For additional project information contact: John Shepard, AICP; jshepard@swrdc.org 507.836.1633

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