June 2023

Welcome to the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) newsletter! Read on for the latest updates and news from the PBDA on grant opportunities, deadlines, and ways to support broadband efforts across the Commonwealth.

On September 4, the PBDA submitted its Draft BEAD Final Proposal to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). This marks a major step toward achieving universal broadband access in the Commonwealth. 

The proposal reflects PBDA’s review of applications submitted for BEAD funding and identifies provisionally selected projects for NTIA’s consideration. Together, these projects represent a diverse mix of technologies to reach every remaining unserved/underserved location in Pennsylvania. 

NTIA will review the Draft Final Proposal over the next 90 days. All provisional selections remain subject to NTIA approval, and adjustments may occur during review. Final selections will determine the projects that move forward to close Pennsylvania’s digital divide. 

On August 8, 2025, United Neighborhood Centers of Northeastern Pennsylvania (UNC NEPA) hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony for its new CEDAR (Community Education, Development, And Revitalization) Center, funded in-part by the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority’s Multi-Purpose Community Facilities Program. The CEDAR Center now serves as UNC’s regional hub for adult education, workforce development, and a range of community-based programs.  

On July 16, 2025, Armstrong Telecommunications, Inc. broke ground on a $16.5 million network buildout in Butler County. 

On August 15, 2025, Alleghenies Broadband, Inc. (ABI) and Crowsnest Broadband completed the first portion of the company’s $2.4 million network expansion in Blair County.  

Round Two of the Digital Connectivity Technology Program (DCTP) closed on May 30, 2025. Details on selected projects are provided below.

The list of Round Two grant approvals is available on the DCTP Program page.

The PBDA is still accepting applications on a rolling basis. 

If a proposed project is coming to your community, the PBDA strongly encourages local government partners participate. The BBRC program was established to help reduce procedural, policy, and permitting barriers to broadband deployment at the municipal level. 

Performance & Expenditure Reports are due to the PBDA  NO LATER THAN October 10th (for the July-September reporting period).

Recipients should contact their project manager with specific questions related to reporting templates and requirements. Reporting information will also be reviewed during program office hours. All recipients are encouraged to begin collecting information to submit reports in advance, where possible.

If you have questions about closing the digital divide in Pennsylvania, email the
PA Broadband Development Authority or connect with us by phone
at 1.866.466.3972.

Department of Community & Economic Development | dced.pa.gov