The District of Columbia announced on Monday a new initiative that will offer high-speed connections to eligible households at reduced or no cost.
As part of President Joe Biden’s affordable connectivity program, internet service providers which opt for taking part in DC’s community internet initiative will have free access to District-owned rooftops in return.
“Access to high-speed internet is critical. As we stay focused on building a more connected DC, increasing access to affordable, high-quality internet is a big part of that work,” said DC Mayor Muriel Bowser in a statement.
“Whenever we can use District-owned buildings to better support the community, that is a win for everyone. We’re happy that President Biden is making this issue a priority, and we plan to make DC a national example of what is possible,” she added.
WeLink has become the first internet service provider to participate in the District’s program, according to Bowser. The company will install their neighborhood hubs in Wards 5, 7 and 8, starting within the next 30 days to provide multi-gigabit speed internet for free to qualifying households.
“The partnership between WeLink and Washington, DC marks a major milestone in our efforts to close the digital divide and bring affordable gigabit-speed internet to every household,” WeLink CEO Kevin Ross said.
Biden recently announced his administration’s affordable connectivity program that aims at making affordable, high-speed internet available to millions of Americans.
More details about DC’s community internet program and eligibility information can be found here.