Internet grant is cut again

NEWTON FALLS — The state for the second time has cut a technology grant to help bring broadband Internet access to the hamlet and its paper mill.

Despite a potential $15,000 setback, officials say the project is moving ahead at full steam.

The grant to extend the Development Authority of the North Country's fiber-optic line five miles from Star Lake to Newton Falls Fine Paper was reduced from $75,000 to $60,000, St. Lawrence County Planning Director Keith J. Zimmerman said.

State Office for Technology officials first reduced the $100,000 grant to $75,000, and then decided in September not to award the grant. The state changed its mind after the county appealed the decision.

The state's latest effort to chip away at funding prompted an immediate response from county officials, who told the Office for Technology on Tuesday that the county wants the grant at its full amount.

"We'll still have a $15,000 shortfall if it comes in at $60,000," Mr. Zimmerman said. "We expect to be able to close the funding gap, potentially with the state's assistance."

All parties involved in the project — the county Industrial Development Agency, DANC, Newton Falls Fine Paper and the town of Fine — are committed to completing it, IDA Executive Director Raymond H. Fountain said.

Newton Falls Fine Paper needs the line extension to access reliable telephone and Internet service. Newton Falls Fine Paper President Dennis R. Bunnell could not be reached Thursday.

The project's total estimated cost is $227,500.

"They need a dependable communication system, whether it's broadband or their telephone service," Mr. Fountain said. "When someone wants to place an order they have to know the company is readily accessible. If they can't get a hold of you, they'll go somewhere else."

DANC Deputy Executive Director Thomas R. Sauter said the agency is ready to work through the winter to extend the line, weather permitting. DANC is using existing utility poles to extend its network.

"We are working on some specialized engineering solutions with National Grid for a few of the poles," Mr. Sauter said. "We're hoping to bring that engineering process to a close fairly shortly. Within 60 days after the engineering and approvals process, we ought to be finished."