Using tax credits to spur investment in rural Wisconsin

Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle has unveiled a major economic development plan for the rural northern part of the state. In doing so, Doyle has shown that he understands the importance of high speed internet for rural communities' economic growth.

An integral component of Doyle's plan is $7.5 million in tax credits to spur businesses to expand high speed internet access. According to the governor's office, these tax credits will create $80 million in investments into new high speed internet infrastructure.

Gov. Doyle said in a press release,

“To continue growing the state economy, we must work from region to region, and develop efforts tailored to local communities – the businesses, the hardworking citizens and families, and especially the area’s natural setting and resources.
…

For businesses, entrepreneurs, and families in Northern Wisconsin to be successful, they need access to cell phone and high speed Internet service.

This is a promising development for universal high speed internet access in Wisconsin, and it's a prime example of the government creating incentives for telecom companies to expand access to rural communities.

Doyle aims to boost state's north (Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel)

Doyle commits $7.5 million to cell phone and Internet access (Wisconsin Technology Network)

Gov. Doyle: Announces economic development plan for northern Wisconsin (Press Release)