State board approves broadband grant request

Last Thursday the Wahkiakum County PUD learned they had become the recipient of a $50,000 broadband feasibility grant from the Washington Department of Commerce’s Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB).

"We are working on the next ‘steps,' and it would be premature to speculate on the exact process at this time," said Wahkiakum PUD Manager David Tramblie, who made a presentation to CERB.

“The study will include a formal needs analysis to assess existing and future demand for high speed broadband infrastructure in the area, and how implementing the project will lead to a significant impact on the vitality of the community, " an announcement from the Department of Commerce said. "The study will determine cost and aid in determining cost/benefit analysis for the project, and will assist community leaders in evaluating how the project would benefit employment, safety and educational access throughout Wahkiakum County.”