Orlando Aims to Boost Internet Access for Parramore Residents

Orlando is working on a plan to provide free internet access in Parramore, where many residents currently lack connectivity.

Orlando Aims to Boost Internet Access for Parramore Residents
Orlando Aims to Boost Internet Access for Parramore Residents

They’re in the early stages of planning a network with about two dozen Wi-Fi nodes. This will cover several blocks in Parramore, located just west of Interstate 4.

Parramore stretches from Colonial Drive to Gore Street, between Hughey Avenue and Orange Blossom Trail. Recent census data shows that around 53% of people in one area reported having no internet at home. Even those who do might not have unlimited data plans.

With a median income significantly lower than the county average of about $69,000, city officials think money is a big factor here.

Commissioner Shan Rose, who represents Parramore, pointed out that many services are moving online. “Imagine having to choose between paying for internet and putting food on the table?” she said.

City commissioners are set to vote on $123,000 for planning this network. They’re considering placing Wi-Fi nodes on bus stops, light poles, and even solar-powered picnic tables.

In recent years, there’s been a push to close the digital divide, with $25 billion from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 aimed at broadband initiatives. This funding is being distributed to states and local governments.

Orlando’s plan is funded through its Accelerate Orlando account, which received $58 million from the federal legislation. While most of this money is for affordable housing, about $2 million is earmarked for broadband programs.

Last year, Orange County connected over 1,300 properties in nearby areas to high-speed internet using federal funds.

It’s important to note that about 20% of Americans still lack internet access, mainly due to infrastructure issues or economic reasons.

Mike Hess, Orlando’s Sustainability and Resilience director, mentioned that in Orlando, it’s usually about affordability rather than infrastructure.

Parramore has the highest rate of residents without internet in the city. The median age there is around 55, and the median household income is about $14,000.

Tasha Robinson-Banks, who works with kids at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Florida, noticed the digital divide during the pandemic. Many kids in Parramore rely on the clubhouse for internet access to do their schoolwork.

“Our kids often look for Wi-Fi spots around Parramore,” she said. “If they can’t get it at home, they go to places like Subway.”

Demarcus Oliver, who grew up in Parramore, thinks the city’s plan could really help residents and those without homes. “I think it’d be amazing,” he said.

While the new network will boost free Wi-Fi, it won’t connect directly to homes. But residents will have easier access just outside their homes or a short walk away.

The city is also planning to relaunch a program that lets residents check out Wi-Fi hotspots to use at home. They had a pilot program that allowed residents to borrow hotspots and tablets for free.

“We’re not aiming for every inch of Parramore to have Wi-Fi,” Hess explained. “Our goal is to ensure that if you live in Parramore, you can access Wi-Fi right outside your house or nearby.”

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