PIERRE, S.D. (WNAX) – The Federal Communications Commission has announced that South Dakota will get more than $700 million over the next 10 years to help internet providers expand broadband services.

Greg Dean with the South Dakota Telecommunications Association says it will help their members complete wiring rural areas of the state.

Dean says while their companies have made progress, the final miles are the most difficult.

Dean says internet availability is probably more important in rural areas.

South Dakota is getting the largest chunk of the $4.9 billion the FCC is providing to the states.