Amanda Purcell is reporting for Columbia-Greene Media the state announced January 31, nearly $211.3 million in awards to broadband companies serving the Capital Region. The announcement marked the third and final round of Gov. Andrew Cuomo's New NY Broadband program, an initiative to secure high-speed internet for underserved areas across New York. Companies in the Capital Region that serve all or parts of Greene and Columbia counties to receive awards as part of Round III: Hughes Network, Gtel Teleconnections, FairPoint Communications, Mid-Hudson Data Corporation, MTC Cable, Slic Network Solutions and Verizon Communications. FairPoint Communications serves the eastern and northern parts of Columbia County, and Gtel Teleconnections serves the southwestern corner of the county. Mid-Hudson Data Corporation serves much of Greene County as well as Hudson and surrounding areas. F. Michael Tucker, president and CEO of Columbia County Economic Development said Wednesday, “While we are still assessing the details, the fact that...providers received significant awards is terrific news in connection with the governor’s efforts to provide broadband for all.” Officials in both counties will now discuss where broadband service will be extended with the winning broadband providers. Read the full story at HudsonValley360 [dot] com.