Governor Kathy Hochul has announced $52.6 million in funding to improve New York’s digital infrastructure. The funds are allocated to expanding high-speed internet access across the state, targeting underserved communities affected by the digital divide. This initiative aims to increase connectivity and access to essential internet services statewide.
Building on previous investments, these latest awards targeted to connect 6,900 key locations, including a significant number of affordable housing units, to a lifeline currently beyond their reach, and this time the outreach spans 28 counties. "New York State is leading the nation in closing the digital divide once and for all," Governor Hochul said in a press release. The roll-out is expected to provide over 24,000 households with improved access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
Supported by Empire State Development and federal funds from the American Rescue Plan and the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, this project aims to reduce internet service costs to as low as $10 per month in some areas. Senator Charles Schumer, who helped secure federal funding, stated that the initiative will expand high-speed internet access across New York, reaching communities from Buffalo to the Southern Tier. He noted that the project will provide families with improved connections to education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and one another.
The Municipal Infrastructure Program is working to build new fiber pathways in rural areas, while the Affordable Housing Connectivity Program aims to improve digital access for low-income residents. These programs reflect the state’s efforts to increase internet accessibility and opportunity. Assemblymember Steve Otis highlighted this approach, emphasizing the state’s commitment to expanding digital access. The current investment is part of the ConnectALL initiative, a billion-dollar effort to ensure internet connectivity is recognized as an essential service necessary for participation in today’s digital society.
