Huntington Park Is Rolling Out Free Wi-Fi For Residents

Topline:

The city of Huntington Park is rolling out free internet access in public spaces to its residents. The service is now available in city parks and in neighborhoods on the city’s west side, but officials say it will be extended to reach all residents.

Why it matters: The internet is considered essential for modern life, yet 12% of households in Huntington Park don’t have access. Experts say affordability is the main barrier.

Why now: City officials announced the program during a news conference this week. Mayor Karina Macias called it a “historic” moment for the city. “During the pandemic, we saw how much it affected our students and our youth to not have that access to Wi-Fi,” she said. “It’s about equity.”

The backstory: California has been spending billions to help close the digital divide. Huntington Park recently requested $25.4 million in federal grant money to connect 3,000 unserved households. A final decision is expected by June.

Go deeper: For more on the state's digital divide and how it impacts Angelenos, click here .