First Awards Under the Affordable Housing Connectivity Program Will Secure New $10/Month Broadband Service for Over 14,000 Low-Income Households in Buffalo, New York City and Rochester
Part of Governor Hochul’s ConnectALL Initiative To Transform Broadband Infrastructure and Bridge the Digital Divide Statewide
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the first grant awards under the Affordable Housing Connectivity Program that will deliver high-speed internet to thousands of lower income households. The inaugural awards from the Affordable Housing Connectivity Program will provide broadband service at $10 per month and Gigabit-speed service at $30 per month to an anticipated 14,167 lower income households across Buffalo, Rochester, upper Manhattan and the Bronx through 2034. The $13.1 million in total grant funding will connect 780 buildings, all of which include affordable housing and some of which are public housing properties.
“In today's digital age, access to reliable, affordable high-speed internet isn't just about convenience – it's about ensuring every New Yorker can participate fully in our modern economy and society,” Governor Hochul said. “Through these strategic investments, we're not only installing fiber and infrastructure, we're opening doors to education, healthcare and economic opportunity. By delivering affordable broadband solutions to our affordable housing communities and supporting county-led initiatives, we're creating a more connected and equitable New York.”
Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “These strategic investments are critical to achieving digital equity across New York State. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, we are providing the infrastructure necessary for communities to thrive, supporting residents in affordable housing and ensuring rural counties have access to modern broadband solutions. Through the ConnectALL initiative, we're not just laying fiber – we're laying the foundation for stronger, more connected communities where every New Yorker has the tools they need to succeed in the digital economy.”
Read the full press release here.