ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com

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This map from the governor's office shows 100 mbps high- speed Internet now available in New York State. (FILE)

Hours after an announcement by Gov. Andrew Cuomo to make high-speed Internet available across the state by 2019, Assemblywoman Jane Corwin and Unshackle Upstate both applauded the plan.

Corwin, a Republican from Clarence, said the announcement is "welcome news for citizens and employers alike," while Unshackle Upstate, a business and taxpayer group said it will "bolster the foundation of our economy.”

Corwin said the need for high-speed Internet is particularly great in Western New York. Only 41 percent of Erie County residents have access to 100 Mpbs Internet, while none in Niagara and Orleans counties do.

Corwin's statement follows below in its entirety:

The governor’s announcement today that he plans to invest $1 billion into improving the broadband Internet infrastructure in our state is welcome news for citizens and employers alike.

Particularly here in Western New York, where communities are so underserved with broadband service and reliability, it is imperative that the state make this investment to attract and retain jobs, improve education, and foster a better quality of life for all citizens.

In addition to broadband access, Unshackle Upstate called on the governor to make investments in roads, bridges, water and sewer systems.

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