Level 3 Applies For Stimulus Funding

BROOMFIELD, Colo. (AP) — Level 3 Communications Inc., a provider of wholesale Internet networking services, said Monday that it has applied for federal stimulus funding to expand broadband access.

Level 3 is asking for $15 million in grant funding, which it would match with an additional $5 million and use to create new access points or "middle mile" connections for its network in more than 50 rural markets in six states.

The company said it would put new equipment in existing buildings located on its network in rural areas.

The equipment would create middle mile connections to the Level 3 network between major cities and result in more efficient delivery of Internet, voice, data and video services to local or "last mile" providers, including telephone, cable and wireless companies, Level 3 said.

Level 3 shares rose 2 cents to $1.25 in morning trading.