New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced on Monday, September 29th, a three-year extension of Big Apple Connect, the country’s largest municipally subsidized broadband initiative. The program will continue through June 2028, ensuring 330,000 residents across 220 New York City Housing Authority sites receive free high-speed internet and basic cable. The deal includes $1.2 million in new corporate funding to support digital literacy programs at public libraries across all five boroughs.
“By keeping 330,000 NYCHA residents connected through free high-speed broadband and cable, we’re sending a clear message: every New Yorker deserves affordable, reliable internet,” Mayor Adams said. He added that the extension, combined with new literacy programs and online training sessions, will save participating households more than $1,700 annually while advancing the city’s goal of bridging the digital divide.
City officials highlighted the program’s impact, with Chief Technology Officer Matthew Fraser noting that Big Apple Connect has become the “gold standard for municipal broadband initiatives.” NYCHA Chief Operating Officer Eva Trimble added that the program has led to “substantial improvements to the quality of life for NYCHA residents.”
The program initially launched in September 2022, starting with 100 sites before expanding to 220 developments. Before the rollout, providers estimated that 30 to 40 percent of NYCHA residents lacked broadband. Today, the program covers approximately 150,000 households, or 330,000 individuals, with costs billed directly to the city’s Office of Technology and Innovation. The new agreement builds on these gains while introducing additional funding for literacy initiatives.
Corporate partners also welcomed the extension. Spectrum executive Camille Joseph-Goldman said the partnership ensures residents can fully engage in work, learning, and communication. Optimum Vice President Jay Guy said the company was proud to expand its support, noting that new resources will ensure communities “not only have access to essential connectivity, but also the skills and support necessary to thrive in today’s digital world.”
Library leaders and aging advocates highlighted the program’s benefits. Leaders from New York’s three library systems praised expanded one-on-one support through the Neighborhood Tech Help program. Department for the Aging Commissioner Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez stated that the additional funding will help older adults connect, learn, and thrive. “This three-year extension of Big Apple Connect reaffirms Mayor Adams’ commitment to building an age-inclusive city,” she said.
