Neb. PSC Grants $20M to Help Bridge Broadband Gap

The Nebraska Public Service Commission cleared about $20 million for high-speed internet projects through the Nebraska Broadband Bridge Program. Commissioners voted 4-0 at a livestreamed meeting Tuesday, with one member absent, for an order approving grants (docket C-5484). Awarded projects will mostly connect unserved areas, said PSC Telecom Director Cullen Robbins. Projects must be completed by July 9, 2025, said the order. Hartelco received the most funding ($7.2 million), followed by Glenwood Telecom ($3.5 million), Pinpoint Communications ($2.6 million) and Cox ($2.4 million). Commissioners voted 3-1 to keep Dan Watermeier (R) as PSC chair. Commissioner Kevin Stocker voted no and Commissioner Christian Mirch was absent. The commission censured Stocker and Mirch last year for alleged, but not disclosed, misconduct (see 2310030043).