Federal funding of $100 million will be provided to New York to increase broadband internet access for low-income families

New York will receive a $100 million federal grant to increase low-income households’ access to high-speed internet.

On Wednesday, Gov. Hochul announced that money from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 would increase broadband access for about 100,000 households.

Other participants in the announcement included representatives from the White House, the Senate Majority Leader, Sen. Chuck Schumer, and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, Democrat from New York.

The governor stated that while affordable, reliable broadband access is necessary to link New Yorkers to employment, education, and government services, it is still out of reach for a disproportionate number of families.

According to officials, the money will be used to improve internet connectivity in affordable housing units and expand upon the state’s Affordable Housing Connectivity Program, a grant competition created to finance high-speed, dependable broadband infrastructure to and within low-income housing buildings.

Moreover, $1.2 billion has been allocated by Hochul’s Connect All broadband project to provide internet access across the state.
Schumer states, “These government funds will go toward bridging the digital divide, linking communities to well-paying employment, improved healthcare, and higher-quality education in our schools.”

“I am honored to announce this significant $100 million investment to expand internet connectivity across the state more fairly and support New Yorkers’ success in the current digital economy.”

The American Rescue Plan’s $10 billion Capital Projects Fund was created to solve problems made worse by the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in rural, tribal, and low- and moderate-income regions.

The Treasury Department has thus far authorized around 29% of New York’s overall money allotment.

Gillibrand states, “during the pandemic, we witnessed how crucial high-quality broadband is for business, health care, school, and more.”

The American Rescue Plan included substantial financing for internet transmission since it can expand economic opportunities, increase property values, and enhance people’s quality of life and health.

A week ago, Mayor Adams outlined plans to expand Big Apple Connect, the city’s project to build its broadband network. The initiative offers internet and television access at no cost or a significant discount to 202 New York City Housing Authority complexes.