Here is a closer look at four new broadband projects getting underway in New York, North Carolina, Ohio and Virginia:

In upstate New York, Wildwood Programs has received an 845,000 grant to upgrade broadband services for 75 organizations that serve people with disabilities. “Technology can be a great equalizer for people with disabilities and at-risk youth in all parts of our state,” said Gov. David Paterson. “Opportunities for education and careers abound for people adept and in today’s networked world.” Read more about the project here.

A new grant in Raleigh, North Carolina will provide low-cost broadband access to about 2,000 residents in 27 low-income communities. Residents will receive free Wi-Fi access for two years and then have access to services for $10 per month. Read more about the broadband adoption project here.

Connect Ohio has been awarded a $6.9 million grant to begin a computer and broadband training course for 200,000 residents, with a goal of signing up at least 75,000 of them for broadband services. “The goal is to get people who, going in, they’re not fully comfortable computing, they’re not fully comfortable going online, and getting them so they’re walking out comfortable doing those things,” said Don Shirley, Connect Ohio state operations manager. Read more about the project here.

In Virginia’s Nelson County, a $1.8 million grant has been awarded to expand broadband access to rural areas. The project was given a 3-year-deadline, but planners have said they believe it can be done in as soon as 18 months. Read more here.