New York State (NYS) has made a significant move towards bridging the digital divide by providing Affordable Internet Funding access to low-income households. Announced by Governor Kathy Hochul, a $13 million investment will bring high-speed broadband connectivity to over 14,000 households across Buffalo, Rochester, upper Manhattan, and the Bronx. The funding is part of the Affordable Housing Connectivity Program and aims to foster digital equity in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
This initiative ensures that every resident has access to reliable, high-speed internet at an affordable price, enabling participation in education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
Governor Hochul’s Vision for Digital Equity
Governor Hochul highlighted the importance of internet access in the modern era, emphasizing its necessity beyond convenience. “In today’s digital age, access to reliable, affordable high-speed internet isn’t just about convenience – it’s about ensuring every New Yorker can participate fully in our modern economy and society,” she stated. This strategic investment is part of the state’s larger ConnectALL initiative, designed to create an equitable and connected New York.
The Affordable Housing Connectivity Program aims to provide broadband services at highly subsidized rates:
- 100/20 Mbps for $10/month
- 200/200 Mbps for $15/month
- 1000/1000 Mbps (Gigabit-speed) for $30/month
These plans will come with Wi-Fi, ensuring seamless connectivity for residents in affordable housing units.
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Affordable Internet Funding Allocation by Region
The $13 million investment is distributed across three major regions, targeting urban and rural areas to ensure widespread digital access.
- New York City Region
- Funding: $4,573,875
- Coverage: 88 properties across the Bronx and Manhattan
- Impact: 126 buildings, 4,854 housing units
- Infrastructure: Approximately 13 miles of fiber
- Finger Lakes Region
- Funding: $3,930,473
- Coverage: 51 properties in the Rochester metro area (Monroe and Ontario counties)
- Impact: 305 buildings, 4,280 housing units
- Infrastructure: Approximately 12 miles of fiber
- Western New York Region
- Funding: $4,678,197
- Coverage: 39 properties in the Buffalo metro area (Erie County)
- Impact: 349 buildings, 5,033 housing units
- Infrastructure: Approximately 14 miles of fiber
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Leadership Statements
Empire State Development President Hope Knight underscored the importance of infrastructure for thriving communities, stating:
“Through the ConnectALL initiative, we’re not just laying fiber – we’re laying the foundation for stronger, more connected communities where every New Yorker has the tools they need to succeed in the digital economy.”
NYS Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas added,
“This $13 million investment will help bridge the digital divide and make our communities more connected for generations to come.”
Flume Internet’s Role in Expanding Access
Flume Internet, a broadband provider, will spearhead the implementation of this initiative. The company is set to expand its footprint in New York City and introduce new services in Buffalo and Rochester. Flume will offer various speed options to cater to diverse household needs.
Available Plans:
- 100/20 Mbps: $10/month
- 200/200 Mbps: $15/month
- 1000/1000 Mbps (Gigabit): $30/month
These competitive pricing options aim to ensure that no household is left behind in the digital transformation.
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The Broader Impact of Affordable Connectivity
This program isn’t just about laying down fiber cables; it’s about building pathways to opportunity. Affordable internet access enables:
- Education: Students can access online resources and virtual learning tools.
- Healthcare: Telehealth services become more accessible for underserved communities.
- Employment: Job seekers can apply for positions and attend virtual interviews.
- Economic Growth: Businesses in these regions gain access to a larger market through digital platforms.
Governor Hochul’s initiative aligns with national and global trends emphasizing the necessity of internet access as a fundamental right.
A Decade-Long Commitment
The Affordable Housing Connectivity Program is a long-term investment designed to sustain high-speed broadband access through 2034. By providing reliable internet at subsidized rates, the program ensures continuity and security for participating households.
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Conclusion
The $13 million investment through the Affordable Housing Connectivity Program marks a significant step towards digital equity in New York State. With affordable pricing and high-speed options, this initiative empowers over 14,000 households to participate fully in the digital economy. By bridging the digital divide, NYS is fostering a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their socioeconomic background.
FAQs
- What is the Affordable Housing Connectivity Program?
The program is a New York State initiative providing affordable high-speed internet to over 14,000 low-income households. - How much funding has been allocated for this program?
A total of $13 million has been allocated for this initiative. - Which regions will benefit from this funding?
Buffalo, Rochester, upper Manhattan, and the Bronx are the primary beneficiaries. - What are the available internet speed plans?
Plans include 100/20 Mbps for $10/month, 200/200 Mbps for $15/month, and 1000/1000 Mbps for $30/month. - Who will provide the internet services?
Flume Internet will manage the implementation and service delivery. - What is the duration of the program?
The initiative is designed to last through 2034. - Why is this initiative important?
It bridges the digital divide, ensuring equal access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. - How does this program support digital equity?
By providing affordable internet to underserved communities, it ensures everyone has access to essential digital tools. - How will the funding be distributed?
The funds are divided among New York City, Finger Lakes, and Western New York regions to connect properties and units. - What is the ConnectALL initiative?
ConnectALL is a broader NYS initiative aimed at achieving digital equity through investments in broadband infrastructure.