WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Barbara A. Mikulski and Benjamin L. Cardin (both D-Md.) today announced Allegany College will receive a $100,000 grant for the creation of a campus-wide wireless communications system. The money is being awarded by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) through their special Telecommunications Initiative.

“Forty years ago, interstate highways were crucial for economic growth in our rural areas, now it’s the information superhighway,” said Senator Mikulski. “I’m proud that this funding will enable students at Allegany College to benefit from top-flight high-speed Internet services. I will continue to fight for grants like these that support Maryland students, colleges and communities.”

“Education is the engine that drives our economy, and access to state-of-the-art technology is a crucial component of a 21st Century education,” said Senator Cardin. “I am pleased that this ARC grant will provide the campus of Allegany College with high-speed Internet service.”

The grant will underwrite the installation of a wireless technology network on the Allegany College campus, paying for the necessary controllers, cabling, antennas, switches and other electronic equipment. The wireless network will provide high-speed Internet services throughout the campus, benefiting nearly 3,000 students.

The ARC is a federal-state partnership that works with the people of Appalachia to create opportunities for self-sustaining economic development and improved quality of life.