Three Whitman County companies get funding

COLFAX — The state utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) is providing funding to three Whitman County companies to expand internet services.

The funding comes from UTC’s approval to spend $4.85 million to support broadband service under the State Universal Communications Services Program, according to a spokesperson.

The State Universal Communications Services Program provides direct financial support to Washington’s small telecommunications companies that have adopted a plan to provide broadband internet services in rural areas of Washington.

Three companies, serving customers in rural Whitman County, received funds.

Pioneer Telephone Company is receiving funding to support existing broadband services and deploy additional services.

Inland Telephone is receiving support to deploy broadband services to new locations to meet requirements set by the UTC.

St. John Telephone is receiving funds to support existing broadband services and commit to expanding service to new locations.

Companies applying for the funds must include a broadband plan in their application that maintains, provides, or enhances broadband within its service area and must meet eligibility criteria.

The Legislature previously extended the program in 2019, and the program is scheduled to end in 2024.