Virginia has been awarded a $26 million dollar grant to expand rural broadband access as part of the larger series of broadband funding announced this week by the Commerce Department. The three regional projects are expected to create hundreds of jobs across the state and increase overall economic opportunities.

“Expanding access to broadband technology levels the playing field for many of our rural communities, creating short-term jobs while promoting longer-term economic opportunities,” Sen. Mark Warner said. “These grants represent a great investment that enhances access to online education and other public services, and helps local businesses compete across a global marketplace.”

Read more here.