ORLANDO, Fla. – The city of Orlando is exploring a new initiative to provide free Wi-Fi to the Parramore neighborhood.
During a meeting on Monday, the city council will vote to approve planning and mapping of Wi-Fi access points in Parramore.
Lee Garner, a barber in Parramore, expressed his excitement about the plan, noting that it could alleviate some financial burdens for the community.
“It’s expensive. I guess it will kind of take a little toll off us,” Garner said.
The project is funded by “Accelerate Orlando,” which uses American Rescue Plan Act federal funds to address community challenges, including the digital divide.
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Michael Hess, who is Orlando’s director of sustainability and resilience, highlighted the significant need for internet access in Parramore.
“Parramore is the neighborhood where we think we have the biggest need, so many of our residents can’t afford to have high-speed internet in their home in Parramore,” Hess said.
Census data indicates that nearly 50% of Parramore residents lack quality internet access.
Hess emphasized the importance of this project in ensuring everyone has access to the internet and technology. “If you lack that access, it can set you back. So, we’re trying to make sure everyone has access to internet and technology,” he said.
The initiative is the first of several planned to bridge the digital divide in various communities and residents like Garner see the potential benefits of the program.
“I think it’ll be beneficial for the neighborhood. I’m always a product of Parramore and I love it,” Garner said. “I just think anything that helps knowledge, like Wi-Fi, giving you access to everything, I think it’s a great thing.”
Planning and mapping of Wi-Fi access points is estimated to cost $123,462.
The city council will vote to approve planning the project during their meeting on Monday at 2 p.m.
For further details on “Access Orlando,” click here.
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