07.08.05

$248,000 Headed to Tri-Cities' SWIFT Broadband Project

Senator Cantwell secured funding in 2005 spending bill

WASHINGTON , D.C. – A quarter million dollars in federal funding is ready for delivery to TRIDEC's Southeastern Washington Interface Facilities for Technology (SWIFT) broadband project. U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) secured the $248,000 in a federal spending bill last year. The Department of Housing and Urban Development notified Cantwell's office that they sent the SWIFT project official confirmation of the award yesterday, and that the funding will be delivered shortly.

"We have a program here where federal, local and private resources are making a surefire investment in economic development," Cantwell said. "SWIFT will create jobs for decades to come."

The SWIFT project aims to fully link the Tri-Cities with broadband service, hoping to spur economic development and make the region attractive for high-tech businesses. The funding will complete the circle of broadband for the Tri-Cities, making broadband Internet for small businesses, schools, and others both faster and cheaper.

SWIFT is a project combining the efforts of TRIDEC, local public utility districts, businesses, and governments to help expand broadband access for the Tri-Cities. This access will increase the region's broadband connectivity and provide more affordable options to Tri-Cities' residents, businesses, and schools.

Cantwell, a former computer software executive, is a member of the Senate Commerce Committee and its Communications Subcommittee, which deals extensively with technology and broadband policy issues.

Cantwell announced Senate approval of the grant during a roundtable discussion last September with members of TRIDEC's IT Taskforce, local officials, and business leaders. The group then toured the Three Rivers Convention Center, which has directly benefited from SWIFT.

# # #