Huge Demand far Exceeds Broadband Grants

August 2008---"Cash for Clunkers" isn't the only economic stimulus program to attract a lot of takers: The federal government on Aug. 27 said it has received requests for nearly $28 billion from groups that want to expand high-speed internet service in the United States. The total requests outstripped available funds seven to one.

States, counties, Indian tribes, nonprofits, phone companies, libraries, colleges, universities, and others -- 2,200 requests in all  -- lined up in advance of the Aug. 20 deadline. The government has $4 billion in loans and grants initially available.

The money will be used to connect rural homes to the internet, stimulate interest in getting internet service among groups that don't use it much, and expand internet access in public locations such as schools and libraries.

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