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A pilot program aimed at expanding broadband access in New Jersey awarded $40 million in grants for projects across the state.

A grant award ceremony took place June 25 in Penns Grove to mark this next step in the New Jersey Broadband Infrastructure Deployment Equity (NJBIDE) Pilot Program. The competitive grant initiative – funded through the Capital Projects Fund – works to bring high-speed internet access to areas with limited or no connectivity. The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities oversees the program.

The awardees include:

• City of Vineland: $3.7 million
• Salem County: $9.9 million
• Borough of Penns Grove: $9.5 million
• Brightspeed (Connect Holding II LLC): $9.8 million
• Verizon New Jersey Inc.: $6.3 million

The work will provide reliable, high-quality internet service to over 9,000 broadband serviceable locations (BSL) across New Jersey. The pilot prioritizes broadband infrastructure in areas with significant broadband gaps, such as rural and economically disadvantaged areas.

Deployment & construction phase

These awards mark the first infrastructure grants awarded by the Office of Broadband Connectivity.

“We are absolutely thrilled that we are entering the deployment and construction phase of this historic expansion of broadband connectivity for the underserved communities in the state,” said NJBPU President Christine Guhl-Sadovy. “The NJBIDE program is dedicated to securing New Jersey’s future by ensuring that every resident, regardless of their background or where they live, has the digital services necessary to thrive in our increasingly interconnected world.”

“This $9.5 million grant is more than just an investment in broadband – it’s an investment in our future,” said Penns Grove Mayor LaDena Londo.

New Jersey League of Municipalities Executive Director Michael Cerra said, “The NJ League of Municipalities congratulates the recipients of the NJBIDE grants for their outstanding commitment to advancing innovation and sustainability across New Jersey. From rural townships to our largest cities, these investments are empowering municipalities to meet local challenges with smart, community-driven solutions that promote resilience, equity, and economic vitality.”