UPDATE: Residents of the newly developed Southside View in Newark’s South Ward will benefit from 15 years of free high-speed internet access, an initiative just announced by Newark Fiber in partnership with Citizens Bank and developer Adenah Bayoh. This groundbreaking service aims to eliminate a crucial barrier to education, healthcare, and employment in today’s digital landscape.
The partnership guarantees that all 40 units in the 100% affordable housing development on South 11th Street will be equipped with reliable internet access. Bayoh emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “Access to the internet is no longer a luxury; it’s a lifeline to education, health care, and economic mobility.”
Citizens Bank is contributing significantly to this effort, providing a $13 million investment, which includes $500,000 for a technology center and three years of after-school STEAM programming for residents. Scott Kilpatrick, vice president of community development investment at Citizens, highlighted the bank’s commitment to enhancing community development. “Our investment reflects our dedication to affordable housing that strengthens communities and expands opportunities,” he said.
Newark Fiber, operated by Invest Newark, is tasked with implementing a future-ready broadband system at Southside View. This initiative is part of a larger mission to expand affordable broadband access citywide, aiming to close the digital divide affecting lower-income households. “Affordable internet access is a necessity for all, not just those who can afford it,” said Aaron Meyerson, chief innovation economy officer at Invest Newark.
Residents can expect immediate benefits from this initiative, with the digital resources ensuring that families are not left behind in the rapidly evolving technological landscape. The collaboration between these organizations showcases a strong commitment to equitable development in Newark, promising a brighter future for its families.
As this project unfolds, all eyes will be on the South Ward, where the impact of free internet access for residents will be closely monitored. The community eagerly anticipates the transformative effects of this initiative on education and economic mobility for families in the area.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story, as Newark sets a precedent for community-focused broadband solutions.
