Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

City requests proposals to create a broadband access program for low-income households

Syracuse City Hall. 2/14/22. (Photos by Max Mimaroglu)
Max Mimaroglu
/
WAER
Syracuse City Hall. 2/14/22. (Photos by Max Mimaroglu)

The City of Syracuse is seeking proposals to develop and build a pilot program to design and implement a community broadband program with American Rescue Plan Act funding.

In 2019, data from a U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey revealed an evident internet divide in Syracuse. According to Survey, more than 25% of the Syracuse low-income households lack internet access. As much as 45% of residents also lack high-speed broadband access.

In a statement Tuesday, Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh said affordable and reliable internet service is essential to our daily lives, from remote work to applying for jobs and assuring children have access to learning platforms.

“The need for dependable internet is more prevalent than ever,“ Walsh said in the statement. “I am pleased that we are moving towards a more connected Syracuse community with this request for proposals.”

Vendors interested in submitting proposals for the community broadband program are encouraged to reach out to the City Purchase Division and Stacy Jennis, assistant director of purchasing, at the city budget department for more information.

John Smith has been waking up WAER listeners for a long time as our Local Co-Host of Morning Edition with timely news and information, working alongside student Sportscasters from the Newhouse School.