Image provided by: OMA+OLIN
From the press release:
“11th Street Bridge Park, Washington’s first elevated public park, today announced Comcast as its official “connectivity partner.”company It will provide free high-speed internet access, free laptops and digital skills programming to an estimated 1 million park visitors and surrounding communities annually.. The investment announced today is part of Project UP, Comcast’s $1 billion commitment to help advance digital equity.
Although the District of Columbia has a robust broadband infrastructure, 23% of households do not subscribe to broadband service, and many of these households are concentrated in the 5th, 7th, and 8th Wards.
“Addressing the disparities between those who have access to broadband and those who don’t requires meaningful investments in giving District 8 residents the tools they need and teaching them how to use those tools. ” said Scott Kratz, Senior Vice President, Building Bridges. Director of Across the River & 11th Street Bridge Park. “We have heard from community members that addressing the digital divide is a priority for Bridgestone Park, and we are excited to partner with Comcast to make a lasting impact on that effort. I am.”
Comcast’s donation is valued at $1 million and includes:
Free public WiFi throughout the park.
A Comcast Lift Zone will be installed in the park’s community room to provide free high-speed internet access to visitors and a free monthly digital skills training program to local residents.
Donated 15 laptops for public use in the park.
Supporting ongoing programs at the park’s River Amphitheater.and
Digital display boards will be installed in the park to inform you of daily activities.
“We are proud to partner with 11th Street Bridge Park to bridge the digital divide in Washington, D.C.,” said Misty Allen, vice president of government affairs and community impact for the Comcast Beltway. . “We know that having the tools and skills necessary to navigate the digital world is critical to closing the opportunity gap and will help us build a future of limitless possibilities.” With the addition of the new lift zones, Comcast will now have more than 40 lift zones at community centers across the District, providing visitors with access to free WiFi.”
“As a long-time partner of 11th Street Bridge Park and Comcast, Iona is privileged to serve the Elders of Ward 8 through our Adult Day Health Center in Congress Heights. I’m very happy to see that happen.” Joon Bang, CEO of Iona Senior Services. “Attendees at Washington Home Center in Iona will greatly benefit from free WiFi and digital skills training, and truly enjoy spending time outdoors in our beautiful new park.”
Removing barriers toward a more inclusive economy is a key goal of Bridge Park’s nationally recognized Equitable Development Plan. Park officials will host a community town hall at Anacostia High School on the evening of February 8 to unveil an updated equitable development plan that includes new health and wellness strategies, along with the final park design from architects and engineers. It’s planned. ”
