The federal Capital Projects Fund was created during the COVID-19 pandemic to address critical needs that emerged, intended to support a wide range of infrastructure projects that would enhance public health and safety, digital connectivity and equitable access. Gov. Phil Murphy announced last week that New Jersey has been approved for nearly $180 million through the Capital Project Fund.
More than $34 million of this funding is approved for the State Library’s Community Center Digital Connect program — for constructing or improving buildings that directly support employment, education and health monitoring. Communities with critical needs were preselected and participated in a competitive grant process administered by the New Jersey State Library.
“Our mission is to empower residents by providing community-based access to high-quality modern infrastructure, including broadband, which is essential for accessing critical services,” said State Librarian Jen Nelson.