Governor Perdue Announces Wireless Communities Georgia Grant Awards

Funding made available to Savannah, Statesboro and Hapeville to create local wireless networks

ATLANTA – Governor Sonny Perdue announced today that Savannah, Statesboro and Hapeville have been selected to receive funding in the second round of grants through the Wireless Communities Georgia program.

“We are seeing real progress in communities that received awards last year, and I am pleased to be able to continue funding this year to promote economic development, education and greater government efficiency,” said Governor Sonny Perdue.  “These three communities all presented a need and a good business case for their projects and we are happy to make these awards.”

The Wireless Communities Georgia program provides funding to local governments to build wireless networks in their communities.   Wireless connectivity allows users to access the internet through personal computers, PDA’s and other wireless devices.  At the Governor’s request, the 2007 General Assembly appropriated $1 million in the FY08 budget for the Wireless Communities Georgia grants. 

This year’s funding represents the second round of grants made available to Georgia communities.  The first round of grants, totaling $4 million, was awarded in October 2006.  The second round of grants, announced today, will include $600,000 for Savannah, $323,298 for Statesboro, $299,354 for Hapeville.

Local governments are responsible for proposing, planning and implementing the wireless projects in their communities.  The state funding requires a local match of 50 percent from each recipient community.  The Georgia Technology Authority manages the awards and monitors and provides technical guidance for project implementation.

“Expanding wireless accessibility in Savannah will enhance our quality of life and further build our reputation as the ‘creative coast,’” said Senate President Pro Tempore Eric Johnson (R-Savannah).

“Economic growth is fueled by technological advancements such as wireless internet connectivity,” said House Game, Fish & Parks Committee Chairman Bob Lane (R-Statesboro).  This grant will help move Statesboro forward and provide greater efficiency for our local government, our students and our businesses as well help us attract new businesses to the area.”

“A wireless network in Statesboro will not only benefit the local government but our college students as well,” said House Rules Committee Vice Chairman Butch Parrish (R-Swainsboro).  “I look forward to seeing this program implemented as our community continues to grow.”

For more information about Wireless Communities Georgia, visit www.gta.georgia.gov/wcg. 

###