Solving Baltimore’s digital divide requires all voices at the table

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The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) will provide massive opportunities for local and state organizations across the country. The IIJA offers over $500 billion in federal funding to improve all forms of American infrastructure—including broadband internet access infrastructure. Of this, $2.75 billion will be distributed to states through Digital Equity Act programs that aim to ensure all residents have the skills and capacity to engage in the digital economy. This is a once-in-a-generation investment that can help Baltimore (MD) in profound ways by providing resources to address infrastructure at the local level. Additionally, a compelling application for digital equity funds will require community engagement. So, the time is now for Baltimore to build a meaningful public engagement process. The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation believes in establishing a “commission” with local and national experts charged with building a public record, on behalf of the mayor, to inform the city’s digital equity priorities. With a focus on critical areas like telehealth, workforce development, the creative economy, and consumer protections, public hearings in each Baltimore City Council district would offer a powerful mechanism to elevate high-impact opportunities. 

[Amalia Deloney is the vice president and director of digital equity for the Robert W Deutsch Foundation.]


Solving Baltimore’s digital divide requires all voices at the table