NEW CARLISLE, Ind.--- Friday, Congresswoman Jackie Walorski, announced a one million dollar federal grant to improve broadband in New Carlisle. The grant would add 24 miles of conduit to the existing three miles of conduit in the area.

“This is a giant step, putting us forward in our future and good news certainly for St. Joe County,” said Congresswoman Walorski.

Construction of the conduits will take place this summer. The grant does raise concerns among local farmers who have spoken out against new developments coming to the area.

“It doesn’t matter if the people of New Carlisle have internet if they aren’t able to live there anymore because of toxic pollution, poisoned water, and industrial chaos,” said Garrett Blad of the Open Space and Agricultural Alliance.

Congresswoman Walorski says the grant’s impact on education and the economy will be far greater than the environmental risk.

“The advantages, the assets of what this brings to this community, even to the kids in the schools in this community are far outweighing some of these conversations that are happening,” said Congresswoman Walorski.