HOLTON (KSNT) - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that a Holton company had secured a $6.6 million loan to improve internet infrastructure.

J.B.N Telephone Company, Inc. of Holton will receive the funds, according to the press release from the USDA. The money will be used to build fiberoptic internet which will benefit 329 people, seven businesses and 178 farms in Cloud, Republic and Washington counties, according to the press release.

Funds are coming from the fifth round of the ReConnect Program which is intended to fund internet projects in rural, remote and unserved communities.

"Keeping Kansans connected with reliable, high-speed internet brings new opportunities and better economic security," Davis said. "Thanks to USDA's ReConnect Program, the investment we are announcing today will drive economic security and rural prosperity for generations to come."