The Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and USDA's Rural Utilities Service (RUS) has announced the release of $4.8 billion in Recovery Act grants and loans to expand broadband access. This is the second round of funding under the Recovery Act for the agencies' broadband programs. NTIA and RUS have also announced the rules for applying, which have been modified to make the process easier for applicants and better target program resources. The agencies plan to accept applications between February 16 and March 15, 2010 and will announce awards by September 30, 2010. The rules, while complementary, are presented in two separate Notices of Funds Availability (NOFA's) that promote each agency's distinct objectives. NTIA rules can be found here and RUS, here. Arnold Weinfeld is Director of Strategic Initiatives and Federal Affairs for the Michigan Municipal League. He can be reached at 517-908-0304 or by e-mail.
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