Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation (TCEDC) Receives $1,079,000 from Appalachian Regional Commission's POWER Initiative
ConnecTusc is part of a nearly $54 million award package and will assist in connecting businesses, farmers, residents, and students to broadband in our coal-impacted communities in Tuscarawas County, Ohio.
Tuscarawas County, Ohio, October 19, 2023 — Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation (TCEDC) has been awarded $1,079,000 by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) to assist in connecting businesses, farmers, residents, and students to broadband in the County. This award is part of a recently announced nearly $54 million package supporting 64 projects in 217 coal-impacted counties through ARC's POWER (Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization) Initiative, which directs federal resources to economic diversification projects in Appalachian communities affected by job losses in coal mining, coal power plant operations, and coal-related supply chain industries. This is the largest single POWER awards package since the initiative launched in 2015.
"From workforce training and agriculture to downtown development and broadband expansion, the projects receiving grants in this round of POWER funding show that the future of Appalachia's coal-impacted communities is economically diverse and innovative," said ARC Federal Co-Chair Gayle Manchin. "Projects like these are resulting in life-changing transformations, which in turn, not only provides new economic opportunities but brings a renewed sense of hope and purpose across our Appalachian Region."
TCEDC created the ConnecTusc campaign/survey to promote high-speed internet. Data collected from ConnecTusc validated the need for funding to expand accessibility countywide. The required match for this grant is supported by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) supplied by the County Commissioners. This is very exciting news!" exclaimed Tuscarawas County Commissioner Chris Abbuhl, pointing out that "Broadband connectivity is no longer a luxury--it is a necessity. It is imperative that all of our citizens have affordable, reliable access to succeed.
A broadband connection is vital for business development in all sectors of our economy, such as manufacturing, agriculture, education, healthcare, and entrepreneurship. Family and social connections will be strengthened, as well."
"One of today's most important infrastructure needs is broadband--it is right up there with water, sewer, electricity, and gas," added TCEDC Director Marla Akridge. "We are proud that the Tuscarawas County Commissioners have acknowledged the importance of broadband and had the foresight to set aside this money. The TCEDC staff and board look forward to assisting and administering the ConnecTusc grant."
Including today's award package, ARC has invested over $420 million in 507 projects impacting 365 coal-impacted counties since POWER was established in 2015. ARC's investments have helped create or retain over 53,000 jobs and prepare over 142,000 workers and students for new opportunities in entrepreneurship, broadband, tourism, and other growing industries.
About the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC)
The Appalachian Regional Commission is an economic development partnership entity of the federal government and 13 state governments focusing on 423 counties across the Appalachian Region. ARC's mission is to innovate, partner, and invest to build community capacity and strengthen economic growth in Appalachia.
About Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation (TCEDC)
Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing economic development in Tuscarawas County, Ohio. TCEDC collaborates with local partners, businesses, and communities to create opportunities and improve the quality of life for residents.