The Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority approved $793 million to expand high-speed internet statewide.

HARRISBURG, Pa. — A state agency announced nearly $800 million in funding for broadband across the state, with millions penciled in for York County.

The Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority announced on Friday that it had provisionally approved $793 million in federal grants for broadband expansion to bring high-speed internet to every corner of the state.

Southern York County will receive more than $46 million to connect households, schools and businesses in areas currently without reliable service according to lawmakers. County officials said $39 million in funds were awarded to Comcast and Talkie Communications — grants that align with priorities identified by York County’s YoCo Fiber Broadband Task Force.

“Expanding access to broadband internet is a priority for York County,” York County Commissioner Julie Wheeler said. “These grants reinforce that our proactive approach is working for residents and businesses in rural York County.”

Talkie Communications, a newer provider in the county, has committed an additional $13 million in private capital to expand service. Comcast, with a long-standing presence in the region, will also use the funding to reach unserved and underserved areas.

The grants are part of Pennsylvania’s federally funded Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program, which aims to close the digital divide statewide. The PBDA Board of Directors approved the awards, which are now undergoing a public comment period before final submission to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration.

Governor Josh Shapiro said the initiative will improve access to education, health care and economic opportunities.

“We’re committed to closing the digital divide in the Commonwealth, and this is another significant step forward,” Shapiro said.

Officials emphasized that the funding supports a variety of technologies, including fiber, hybrid-fiber coaxial, fixed wireless and low-Earth orbit satellite. The grants may also cover equipment, network upgrades and service expansion at schools, libraries and community centers.

Local leaders and broadband advocates said the investments are a major step toward connecting all Pennsylvanians and ensuring rural communities are not left behind in the digital economy.