Laurel Highlands Today

Efforts to enhance broadband and cellphone coverage in rural Pennsylvania were the focal point of a House Republican Policy Committee hearing held in Fayette County. Representatives Ryan Warner and Charity Grimm Krupa, both Republicans from Fayette, hosted the session with committee Chairman Joshua D. Kail.

Warner emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts across different government levels to address service gaps, stating, “Pennsylvania has many unserved and underserved areas when it comes to broadband service, and Fayette County is no exception.”

Grimm Krupa underscored the necessity of reliable services for public health and safety, saying, “Broadband services and cellphone coverage are necessities, not luxuries.” She noted that inadequate service affects remote work, education, telemedicine, business operations, and more.

Public safety concerns were highlighted by Gregg Downer from Luzerne Township and Richard Black from the Fayette County Emergency Management Agency. Downer shared an instance where an elderly woman was unable to contact her family due to poor connectivity.

Brandon Carson of the PA Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) discussed state-level efforts to expand broadband access. Andrew French from the Redevelopment Authority of Fayette County expressed confidence in achieving comprehensive connectivity through partnerships with various stakeholders.

Carson addressed potential obstacles such as workforce shortages and permitting delays while responding to lawmakers’ questions. He assured that these challenges are being tackled collaboratively with key partners across Pennsylvania.

Representative Carl Walker Metzgar stressed the need for high-speed broadband in rural areas as essential infrastructure. Jeremy Crandall from CTIA pointed out economic benefits linked to wireless infrastructure investments in Pennsylvania.

Kail concluded by highlighting technological advancements that could help bridge existing service gaps: “Rural communities throughout Pennsylvania lack efficient broadband and cellphone service,” he said. He thanked Warner, Grimm Krupa, and testifiers for facilitating a forum aimed at exploring solutions.

The hearing's video footage and testimonies will be made available online for further review.