WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Kay R. Hagan (D-NC) today announced a $29 million grant for broadband infrastructure in Ashe and Alleghany counties. The investment is expected to create 100 jobs immediately. The funding is part of a Recovery Act effort to expand broadband access in rural areas.

"Jobs are my number one priority, and this investment in Ashe and Alleghany counties will help drive job growth and economic development in the region," Hagan said. "Since coming to the Senate, I have been working to increase broadband access across North Carolina. Our small businesses, workers, students and families will all benefit from 21st century broadband technology that will increase economic opportunities in our communities."

"Here in the High Country, we are so grateful for these federal broadband stimulus grants," said N.C. Sen. Steve Goss. "They bring much needed jobs and technology to our community."

"Rural economic development can only be hastened by the arrival of broadband access in previously unaccessible areas," said N.C. Rep. Cullie Tarleton. "We are very pleased that the federal government recognized the value of investing in our community."

The funding will go to Skyline Telephone and SkyBest Communications. Approximately 100 jobs will be created immediately, and approximately 1,750 North Carolinians, 600 businesses and 100 community organizations will benefit from the expansion of broadband and advanced fiber-to-the-home services. This funding will also benefit several Tennessee counties.

Earlier this year, Senator Hagan and U.S. Rep. David Price (D-NC) announced that the North Carolina non-profit MCNC was set to receive $28 million for broadband infrastructure in 37 counties in eastern and western regions of the state.