To bridge the digital divide in Sonoma County, the Board of Supervisors has given the green light to provide free internet to residents of selected affordable housing complexes. This initiative, drawing on the American Rescue Plan Act funds, aims to connect 556 low-income households, as reported by the Sonoma County Economic Development Collaborative. A one-year free internet service will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, promising 100 MBPS download and 20 MBPS upload speeds.
Supervisor Lynda Hopkins, chair of the Board of Supervisors, highlighted the county's commitment to finding innovative approaches to expand broadband infrastructure rapidly. "The Board has prioritized finding creative solutions to broadband infrastructure development in Sonoma County," Hopkins said. She added, "This free internet program is a step toward equity as we continue to pursue public funding and strategic partnerships that can finally close the digital divide facing many of our shared communities." These services are intended exclusively for the residents of the eligible properties, aiming to distribute internet access to those in need quickly, as per the Sonoma County Economic Development Collaborative.
The locations slated for the free internet include 80 units at Springs Village in Sonoma and 40 units at Celestina Garden Apartments, among others. In total, eleven affordable housing properties operated by organizations like Burbank Housing, MidPen Housing, and PEP Housing will benefit from this program.
While the California Public Utilities Commission turned down the County's application for additional broadband infrastructure funding in the latest round, over $17 million was approved for two other regional broadband expansion projects. The ongoing effort to connect underserved areas demonstrates the County’s dedication to ensuring that internet access is not a luxury but a right for all community members.
The drive for increased internet accessibility in Sonoma County remains crucial, as revealed by the Digital Needs Assessment conducted in 2024, which highlights the ongoing challenges of affordability.
