Syracuse launches free community broadband pilot

Syracuse, NY has announced that enrolment is open for its free community broadband pilot programme named Surge Link.

The pilot, funded with American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars, will offer free broadband internet access to 2,500 underserved households in the City of Syracuse. It is available to eligible residents in the Southwest, Near Westside, and Brighton neighbourhoods.

Data from the 2022 US Census Bureau American Community Survey shows that over 25 percent of Syracuse households lack reliable access to broadband internet.

“Limited access to reliable, affordable internet service deprives children from learning opportunities and minimises access to jobs, healthcare, and other online services that many of us take for granted,” said Mayor Ben Walsh.

“Without closing the digital divide that plagues lower income neighbourhoods, we can’t achieve our Syracuse Surge goal of inclusive growth in the new economy.

“Surge Link will change people’s lives for the better now. We will actively be evaluating this pilot and look forward to expanding the service in the future to provide affordable, high-speed internet to underserved households in other Syracuse neighbourhoods.”

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) subsidy will make the no-cost service possible. If Congress fails to provide additional funds for the ACP, the benefit could end next year. In this case, the city would use ARPA funds to partially subsidise subscribers for the remainder of the pilot period, according to a factsheet.

Eligibility

Following a nationwide request for proposals, the City selected Community Broadband Networks (CBN), a Geneva, NY internet service provider, for a three-year contract to design, install and maintain the network. The Syracuse Common Council authorised US$3.5 million in ARPA funds for the pilot phase of the programme.

The Surge Link network uses a fixed-wireless access (FWA) solution and CBN will provide technical assistance for in-home installations beginning this autumn. The programme also provides a one-time discount of up to US$100 per household to purchase a laptop, desktop or tablet.

“Community Broadband Networks’ mission, since inception, has been to provide affordable internet access to the many underserved residents in Central New York,” said James Orioli, Chief Financial Officer of CBN.  “We’ve seen how access to the internet can change people’s lives for the better – enabling students to access their classrooms remotely, or elderly folks to receive tele-health services at home and providing many more benefits. We are excited to partner with the City of Syracuse to deliver Surge Link to Syracuse residents. Together, we can bridge the digital divide and create a more connected and inclusive society.”

Long-term model

Surge Link applicants must live in designated, underserved census tracts in the pilot area and either meet income requirements or participate in federal assistance programmes such as Federal Public Housing Assistance, Medicaid, and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

The initial RFP was technology-agnostic but specified that the network should offer speeds of at least 100 megabits per second (Mbps) and be a scalable solution with a sustainable financial model.

A spokesperson told Cities Today: “Even as we launch this important pilot programme, we know there are thousands of other Syracuse residents outside of the pilot area that need affordable high-speed internet.

“The City is actively working with our broadband service provider and partners like US Ignite to evaluate sustainable operating models for this service that will enable us to expand service to other parts of the city.

“We will also be seeking community input on expansion opportunities, and expect to share more about these plans later in 2024.”

The City of Syracuse highlighted other digital infrastructure upgrades, including data analytics to enhance city operations. Free Wi-Fi services are now available at public buildings like City Hall and community centres. The city’s Digital Empowerment Program, launched with ARPA funds, deploys Digital Navigators who assist residents to access affordable home internet options and improve digital literacy. The programme has also provided free laptops to families lacking computers at home.