$12 million in ARPA funding awarded to expand cell service in Mid-Missouri counties
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KMIZ)
The Missouri Department of Economic Development announced in a Friday press release that $12,022,081.94 of American Rescue Plan Act money was awarded to 29 cell towers to expand cellular service throughout the state,
The grant will also improve 9-1-1 connectivity in high-cost areas, the release states. Projects are expected to serve more than 17,000 “high-need locations,” according to the release.
One of the three recipients included Branch Towers VI LLC, who was awarded $3 million and serves Callaway, Crawford, Dent, Franklin, Gasconade, Montgomery and Washington counties, according to the DED’s website.
Another recipient was USCOC of Greater Missouri, LLC, which received $5,803,116.60 and serves Adair, Audrain, Clark, Howell, Knox, Laclede, Lewis, Marion, Monroe, Oregon, Ozark, Pike, Ralls, Randolph, Schuyler, Scotland, Shelby, Texas and Wright counties.
“Expanding cellular connectivity statewide remains a top priority for both public safety and economic growth,” Gov. Mike Parson said in the release. “We’re proud to continue making historic investments in critical infrastructure like cellular service to build a stronger future for Missouri. These grant awards will make a positive difference by expanding cellular service for thousands of Missourians.”
The release stated the state opened another round of funding on Friday. There will be $7.9 million available for the construction of new towers, the release states. The application portal closes on Nov. 10, with winners announced on Dec. 29, according to the release.
