June 2023

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

As we close out 2025, I’m proud to share the progress Pennsylvania has made in expanding broadband access and adoption across the Commonwealth. This year has been one of meaningful action, measurable results, and strong partnerships with communities and broadband providers. 

Funding from the U.S. Treasury’s Capital Projects Fund has powered several key initiatives that are making a lasting impact.  

Through the Broadband Infrastructure Program, more than 13,000 homes, businesses, and community organizations were connected to reliable high-speed internet this year. This demonstrates real progress for families, employers, and communities who have waited far too long for service. 

We also advanced our commitment to supporting community-centered access. With investments through the Multi-Purpose Community Facilities Program, local facilities such as libraries, schools, and community hubs are now equipped with the space, technology, and connectivity they need to serve residents more effectively. 

Through the Digital Connectivity Technology Program, we deployed 14,000 laptops to Pennsylvanians in need of a device, helping more people participate fully in the modern economy, access education, and stay connected. 

To help communities prepare for the historic investments ahead, we continued to expand the Broadband Ready Communities Program, encouraging a collaborative, locally driven process that supports more efficient broadband development and strengthens community readiness for long-term success. 

In a milestone achievement, the BEAD Final Proposal was submitted to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration and is currently under review. Once the necessary federal approvals are secured, the proposal paves the way to connect the remaining 130,000 locations across Pennsylvania that still lack the access they need. This will set the stage for the largest broadband investment in the Commonwealth’s history and puts us firmly on the path to universal access. 

To all our partners - ISPs, local governments, community organizations, and Pennsylvanians who continue to advocate for broadband expansion - thank you. Your collaboration and commitment make this work possible. 

We have more work ahead in 2026, and I look forward to continuing this momentum together. 

-Brandon Carson, Executive Director
Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) 

 Happy Hollow Recreational Center of Philadelphia 

Aparna Palantino, Deputy Managing Director, City of Philadelphia Capital Programs Office, State Senator Sharif Street (3rd SD), City Councilmember Cindy Bass, State Rep. Darisha Parker (109th LD), Juliet Fink Yates, City of Philadelphia Broadband and Digital Inclusion Manager, and Germantown Community Members break ground in front of Happy Hollow Recreation Center.

Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker addresses the community in front of Happy Hollow Recreation Center on November 21, 2025.

On November 21, 2025, the historic, 114-year-old Happy Hollow Recreation Center broke ground on its $8.6 million project for extensive interior and exterior renovations. Partially funded with $1 million from the PBDA’s Multi-Purpose Community Facilities grant program, these updates will include an ADA accessible ramp, computer stations, multi-purpose program space, plus repairs, replacements, and additions across the property.  

“There is no greater investment than us investing in our young people and investing in intergenerational spaces.” - Senator Sharif Street 

Mifflin County Library

“This project will transform the Mifflin County Library into the Mifflin County Community Learning Center,” - Kristin Price, Mifflin County Planning Department

Mifflin County Library reopened earlier this year after wrapping up Phase 1 renovations — and Phase 2 will get underway this spring. With $1.64 million from the Multipurpose Community Facilities grant program, the library will further transform into a countywide hub for workforce development, education, and healthcare. 

These new upgrades include a building expansion, new community room, a Penn State Extension office, and modernized technology infrastructure. 

Somerset County Library

Somerset County Library, a PA Forward Gold Star library, hosted an Open House in November to showcase the completion of Phase 1 renovations and unveil additional plans for library enhancements.  

As a dual recipient of PBDA  grants, Somerset County Library is revitalizing the program room and enhancing library spaces to expand access to educational resources, health monitoring, and workforce development opportunities in its community.  

The awards include $1.06 million from the Multi-Purpose Community Facilities Program and 200 laptops from the Digital Connectivity Technology Program.  

“We will be able to expand programs and services we offer and provide even more opportunities for our community to learn, connect, and grow,” - Cheryl Morgan, Library Director

Please take a few minutes to complete the brief survey below by December 31. It only takes about 3 minutes. Your input is important and will help us deliver the information and updates that matter most to you. We appreciate your participation.

Q4 (October-December) CPF program reporting is due on January 10th. Please consult with your project manager listed below if you have any questions about what needs to be submitted. 

No matter your role—legislator, resident, participant, or stakeholder—the PBDA team is ready to help.

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