Merit Network, the longest running regional computer network in the United States, celebrates the signature of the Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act, the biggest infrastructure investment in American history! This landmark legislation follows in the footsteps of other transformational investments in foundational services.
1936
The Rural Electrification Act provides federal loans for the installation of electrical systems to serve rural areas across America. Access to electricity grew from 3% in 1930 to 90% by 1960.
1949
The Rural Electrification Act is amended to provide loans to rural telephone systems. In 1945, only 5% of American farms had phone service; by 1975 telephone service was used by more farms than urban households.
2021
The Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act provides $42.5 billion for installation of broadband Internet to unserved and underserved areas, both rural and urban. In 2021, only 69% of Michigan households have access to affordable, reliable high-speed Internet.
Merit Network congratulates Congress on this bipartisan legislation. We look forward to being a part of history by connecting all Michigan residents with affordable, reliable and equitable broadband access. Join in our collective call to action at michiganmoonshot.org