North Carolina's outdoor spaces are getting a significant tech boost as Mecklenburg County rolls out free public Wi-Fi across 14 parks and recreation centers. Residents who lack technology or internet access at home will now find connectivity in their local parks. The service, requiring no signup, extends to unlimited internet use and cellular hotspots available within the facilities and their immediate parking areas.

Among the enlisted spaces are West Charlotte Recreation Center and the Dorothy Doores Waddy Pavilion at Clanton Park, as well as the Southview Recreation Center and Kilborne Park, all mentioned by Mecklenburg County's announcement. These locations are strategically chosen within "priority communities," identified in 2021's MeckPlaybook master plan as needing extra investment and intervention. Residing in these areas are higher rates of poverty, youth and elderly populations, limited vehicle access, and a larger proportion of communities of color – demographics often hit hardest in a crisis.

According to Mecklenburg County's statement, deputy director for Park and Recreation, Peter Cook, emphasized the essential role the internet plays in community engagement and education. "COVID-19 highlighted gaps in access to essential services, including the internet, among our neighborhoods," Cook said. "Adding Wi-Fi to these parks and facilities makes them stronger hubs for the community engagement, education, and relationship building required to create a resilient and thriving community."

Funding for this initiative comes from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, dedicated to continued COVID-19 relief efforts and addressing local inequalities. The project, grasping an aim to bolster community strength, is expected to be fully operational by January 2025. While the rollout is still ongoing.