Expanding Broadband & Public WiFi

The city recently selected and is in the process of finalizing a contract with a private sector partner to conduct an assessment of the City’s digital infrastructure and fiber network, and ultimately produce a Digital Inclusion Action Plan. The city’s Chief Technology Officer is managing this contract and exploring potential interventions to bridge the digital divide. A comprehensive plan will address 1) Access: investing directly into broadband & wi-fi expansion, potentially leveraging the city’s fiber network, and prioritizing public parks and facilities; 2. Affordability: subsidizing internet service and providing households with free internet accessible devices (phones, tablets, chromebooks, hotspots); 3. Digital literacy: programming and partnerships to ensure residents have the necessary training and support to leverage online resources.