Sarah Huffman
Pennsylvania stalls its digital equity goals after federal funding loss
After the federal government canceled a major grant program over the summer, Pennsylvania digital equity orgs are struggling to stay afloat. The now-terminated $2.75 billion Digital Equity Act (DEA) would’ve distributed millions of dollars to Pennsylvania, helping to provide access to the internet, devices and digital skills programming.
Turnpike toll upgrades could shrink Pennsylvania’s broadband deserts
A nearly-finished project to upgrade Pennsylvania Turnpike tolls could end up boosting broadband access across the state.
Pennsylvania public spaces are getting $45 Million to boost internet access and close the digital divide
Public spaces across Pennsylvania are about to get an internet upgrade. The Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) announced $45 million in funding for the Multi-Purpose Community Facilities Program, which provides money to community organizations and local governments to upgrade public facilities. The program will provide grants to 49 projects in 26 counties across the commonwealth. The grants will go toward building and improving public spaces such as schools, libraries, community centers and healthcare facilities for free, high-speed internet.
Mayor Cherelle Parker is all in on Philadelphia’s digital inclusion efforts
Amid a slew of executive appointments and policy changes, local government workers will feel assured that Mayor Cherelle Parker (D-PA) plans to continue the City of Philadelphia’s digital equity work.
The key to moving digital equity forward? Storytelling and collaboration, national advocates say
Moving digital equity forward requires getting people in power to care. Francella Ochillo, the former executive director of Next Century Cities, says the starting point for tackling digital equity is acknowledging that some people have better, faster and cheaper access to technology, and some people are left to rely on public resources.
Local Philadelphia advocates explain why affordable internet is important for digital equity
The Federal Communications Commission announced that over 20 million households across the country are enrolled in the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). Between this push to spread the word about ACP and the billions of dollars that will be put toward broadband infrastructure expansion, the federal government is investing mightily in digital access. At a local level, even if there is broadband infrastructure in Philadelphia (PA), thousands of families still can’t afford to pay for internet service.