In the Region - August 27, 2026 | Volume 11, Issue 34
ARC NEWS
New Build America, Buy America Resources for Infrastructure Projects
Did you know? 💭
ARC‑funded infrastructure projects must meet Buy America requirements under the Build America, Buy America Act (BABA).
BABA strengthens American manufacturing and domestic supply chains by requiring that federally supported infrastructure projects use iron, steel, manufactured products and construction materials made in the United States.
BABA requirements apply to any project involving permanent infrastructure components — both construction and non-construction.
Need more information?
Check out our new collection of BABA tools and resources designed to help you comply with these requirements, including:
Checklists and step-by-step instructions for applicants, grantees and RSBAs📋
Customizable templates and documents
FAQs, and more!
COMMUNITY
Appalachian superstar, philanthropist and economic trailblazer Dolly Parton passed away this week, surrounded by family in her home state of Tennessee. She was 80. Over a long partnership, ARC was proud to support her Imagination Library, awarding nearly $1M to its local affiliates to improve literacy outcomes across the region and country.
You can help ARC better understand broadband opportunities and challenges that impact Appalachia’s economic future by filling out a short survey today! 🌐 Quick questionnaires are available for community members, infrastructure and deployment experts, or local organizations.
Local leaders are touting the successes and promise of Ohio’s Rolling Hills, an ARC-supported initiative to strengthen local tourism economies by bringing 18 counties in Appalachian Ohio together to collaborate. ⛰️
Wastewater infrastructure is a key component of growth and economic opportunity. 📈 In Pikeville, Kentucky, public leaders partnered with ARC to install a high-tech wastewater treatment plant that would better serve and improve more than 890 area businesses.
APPALACHIA IN THE NEWS
Northern Appalachia
Project to increase electric capacity in Mason Industrial Park moves forward, WRFA
Williamsport advances levee rehabilitation project with construction contract award, NorthcentralPA.com
Youngstown Spring Commons Park opens along Mahoning River, WFMJ
Central Appalachia
Charleston Catholic teacher chosen for STEM academy, Charleston Gazette-Mail
ETSU launches Advance Appalachia for small businesses, Greenville Sun
Job fair focuses on public services in Triad, Kernersville News
Morrisey partners with WVU, Marshall to help communities secure water infrastructure grants, The Parkersburg News and Sentinel
WorkForce West Virginia sets statewide virtual job fair for Sept. 2, WVNews
Southern Appalachia
EVENTS
Appalachian United Outdoors: Virtual Learning & Networking
September 10, October 8 & November 5, 2026; virtual
Broadband Listening Session 1: Community Experience & Economic Opportunity
September 16, 2026; virtual
Broadband Listening Session 2: Infrastructure, Technology & Deployment Reality
September 30, 2026; virtual
2026 SOAR Summit
October 7–9, 2026; Corbin, Kentucky
Broadband Listening Session 3: Capacity, Funding & Future Digital Economy
October 14, 2026; virtual
