Rep. John Damoose, R-Harbor Springs, this week helped deliver a $250 million investment to better connect Northern Michigan, the Eastern Upper Peninsula and other underserved areas of the state with broadband internet.

The provision is included in a historic initiative to improve Michigan’s structural foundation – from roads to drinking water systems to public parks. Senate Bill 565 was finalized by the Legislature and will soon be headed to the governor for signing.

“This measure addresses some of our region’s biggest infrastructure needs in ways that will benefit residents for years to come,” said Damoose, who successfully fought to include the broadband investment. “Families and businesses need reliable, high-speed internet wherever they live. This investment will help expand service to more communities – giving residents and businesses a vital technology tool for work, school and every-day life.”

The federal funding will be used to provide competitive broadband infrastructure grants for establishing service in unserved areas.

Other provisions in the measure will support drinking water infrastructure projects, local road and bridge repairs, and recreation projects.

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