With a new state-approved plan, 95 percent of Missouri will have access to high-speed Internet.  There are no current estimates on the number of residents without broadband access, but one program applicant, Kevin Cantwell of Big River Telephone Company, said in rural areas the number is significant. 

Gov. Nixon announced the public-private partnership Tuesday which will allow private companies to act as contractors, building a high-speed Internet infrastructure.  Money for the program would come from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  There is more than $7.2 billion in all, and officials are hoping to get as much of that as possible.

Nixon's spokesperson, Scott Holste, said most of the state's metropolitan areas, like Columbia and Jefferson City, have Broadband, but many rural areas have spotty service at best.

The plan targets so-called "shovel-ready" programs that can be finished quickly and effectively.  If Missouri qualifies for money, officials said the project will be completed within five years.

Holste said the state is accepting applications through the July 13 deadline and encourages submissions from companies experienced in the technology field. 

To submit your proposal, contact Bill Bryan at: transform.broadbandinterested@mo.gov or the Office of Administration, Division of Purchasing, Room 630 Truman State Office Building, Jefferson City, Mo.  Phone: (573) 526-7746.