Illinois will be receiving over $50 million in funding through the Connect Illinois broadband expansion program. Already helping areas that are hurting for broadband internet access like Macoupin and Madison Counties, the first round of funding will help over 9,283 businesses in those two counties. State Senator Andy Manar was joined by Governor Pritzker to make the announcement. Senator Manar says that this work requires partnership.

Senator Manar continued by stressing that downstate needs broadband now more than ever due to COVID-19.

The 48th District Senator also believes that despite the challenges set in front of Illinois, broadband has been an area that Illinois has excelled at thanks to Governor JB Pritzker.

Funding for the Connect Illinois program was made possible through the Rebuild Illinois program which dedicated $420 million to broadband infrastructure.