Sen. Mark Schoesler, R-Ritzville, is praising the state Community Economic Revitalization Board’s recent approval of funding for a rural broadband project benefiting Clarkston and Asotin.

During its March 21 meeting, the board chose to award a grant and loan, each in the amount of $207,285, for what is known as the Port of Clarkston to City of Asotin+ fiber expansion project.

“This is very good news for Clarkston and Asotin,” said Schoesler, whose 9th Legislative District includes both cities. “Rural broadband is as important in this century as telephone service was in the 20th century. Once this project is completed, it will really help residents and businesses in both communities.”

According to a letter from the CERB to Schoesler, the project consists of engineering and construction of approximately six miles of primarily aerial fiber. There are two build out components of the Southern expansion: Clarkston Heights to Asotin, and the Westside Expansion, Naslund Disposal Service to Field of Dreams. The CERB funds were matched by $138,190 in local resources.

The full letter from CERB to Schoesler can be viewed here.