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Huntington Park Is Rolling Out Free Wi-Fi For Residents
Huntington Park Civic Center on February 2, 2023. (Brian Feinzimer / for LAist)
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Brian Feinzimer
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LAist
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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.”
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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.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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