FCC proposes nearly $1 billion to restore hurricane-damaged networks in Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands

People in line in Utuado, Puerto Rico.
(Image credit: Mario Tama/Getty Images)

The Federal Communications Commission wants to redirect efforts to help the hurricane-damaged U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, proposing that $954 million go towards restoring and expanding broadband networks on the islands ahead of the 2018 hurricane season.

The plan, published Tuesday by FCC Chairman Ajit Pai, proposes spending $64 million on short-term restoration projects, like repairing power lines and building temporary cell sites, as well as $890 million more to repair and expand broadband connectivity and bolster data technology.

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Summer Meza, The Week US

Summer Meza has worked at The Week since 2018, serving as a staff writer, a news writer and currently the deputy editor. As a proud news generalist, she edits everything from political punditry and science news to personal finance advice and film reviews. Summer has previously written for Newsweek and the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, covering national politics, transportation and the cannabis industry.