Colleges get broadband grants

Two area colleges will bolster broadband service, tapping into a $4.9 million grant from the Broadband Technology Opportunities Program.

Three Rivers Community College will receive $563,922, and Mineral Area College will be allocated $66,000, according to the Missouri Department of Higher Education. The grant was awarded to the department as part of the $7.2 billion provided under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to expand access to broadband services nationwide.

The funding will establish or expand 23 public computer centers in geographic areas that serve vulnerable populations. The Department of Higher Education will collaborate with seven community colleges to launch the expanded services.

Three Rivers will open four computer centers with a total of 130 broadband stations, according to the Department. Mineral Area College plans to open one center with 60 broadband stations.