In Minnesota, a $66.3 million broadband stimulus grant will help connect rural parts of the state to broadband access. “It is connectivity it puts us in communication not just with each other but with the world beyond,” says Rep. Jim Oberstar, “I am so thrilled with what I see the possibilities that lay before us here.”

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Here is a closer look at two more states launching new broadband projects designed to expand high-speed Internet access to local homes and businesses:

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Arkansas has been awarded a $7.8 million grant to address broadband needs in underserved areas and by creating a website where residents can go online to make use of government services. In addition, the funds will be used to fund computer training courses and to refurbish computers for qualifying families.Read more

A new study from Seattle-based Ookla has found that St. Paul is the fastest city for broadband download speeds in the country, with fellow Minnesota city Minneapolis rated at number seven.

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The Department of Agriculture has announced an additional $1.2 billion in funding toward 126 broadband projects across the country. The funds are part of the national broadband stimulus aimed at promoting high-speed Internet access and adoption. This most-recent round of funding will target 38 states and Native American tribal areas. Agricultural Secretary Tom Vilsack said the projects, "will give rural Americans access to the tools they need to attract new businesses, jobs, health care and educational opportunities. Bringing broadband to rural America provides a gateway for businesses and key anchor institutions--such as libraries, schools, public safety and community centers." Read more from the National Journal here.

Here is a look at some of the projects being announced:

California: Softcom Internet Communications Inc. has been awarded $6.8 million to expand broadband access in Sacramento and San Joaquin counties. Softcom will build out fiber access across 378 square miles, reaching 14,000 customers and 4,200 businesses. "Now, through the aid of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, we will be able to expand our offerings and benefit the rural communities that we serve through affordable and accessible broadband," said Softcom’s Kevin Triplett. Read more about the project here.

Georgia: $13 million will go toward several rural broadband access projects across the state. Read more here.

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As all 50 states begin new broadband projects as part of the national broadband stimulus, we’ll be bringing you stories of some of those new public-private partnerships getting underway. Here is a look at three high-speed Internet infrastructure project announcements made this week:

Minnesota: Anoka County has received a $13.4 million grant to install fiber lines over the next two years connecting 145 anchor institutions, including public safety offices, law enforcement, libraries, DMV centers, community colleges and local government buildings. Read more about the project here.

North Carolina: Sen. Kay Hagan announced a $29 million project to build up broadband infrastructure across Ashe and Alleghany counties. The project is expected to create 100 jobs. "Jobs are my number one priority, and this investment in Ashe and Alleghany counties will help drive job growth and economic development in the region," Hagan said. "Since coming to the Senate, I have been working to increase broadband access across North Carolina. Our small businesses, workers, students and families will all benefit from 21st century broadband technology that will increase economic opportunities in our communities." Read more about the project here.

Ohio: Western Ohio will receive a $30 million grant to build out broadband access to rural schools in the region. Gov. Ted Strickland announced the project will create 300 jobs while building out 700 miles of fiber over the next two years. Read more here.