(CBS-DETROIT) – Free public Wi-Fi has been installed in five Detroit city parks as part of a pilot program announced for June 2023, officials said.
The Detroit Parks Coalition and Connect 313, along with city leaders, announced that Detroit residents and visitors will be able to enjoy free Wi-Fi in Bradby, Chandler, Clark, McDuffy and Palmer parks.
City of Detroit
According to the city government, about 12,600 residents live within a half-kilometer walking distance of these five parks, and more than 25,000 people have used the Wi-Fi since it was installed.
The goal of this project is to expand internet access to residents and bridge the digital divide faced by Detroit residents.
“Internet access is a fundamental resource. By bringing free Wi-Fi to these five parks, we are not only creating places for everyone in Detroit to connect, learn and thrive, but we are also making progress toward greater digital equity,” said Sigal Hemy, executive director of the Detroit Parks Coalition. “This initiative reflects our commitment to making our parks versatile, accessible and valuable resources for all residents.”
City of Detroit
The Detroit Pistons Foundation, Rocket Community Fund and Knight Foundation provided $265,000 in grants for this project. Funding includes service through internet provider Cronus and the installation of solar-powered charging stations.
Construction work began in summer 2023. The Wi-Fi installation should be completed by the following times:
- Chandler Park: June 2024
- Palmer Park: September 2023
- Bradby and McDuffy Parks: August 2023
- Clark Park: July 2023
“We are excited to continue our work with the Detroit Parks Coalition and Connect 313 by helping to fund the City’s Wi-Fi pilot program to improve internet availability and close the technology gap in Detroit,” said Megan Churches, executive director of the Detroit Pistons Foundation. “As part of the Pistons’ Basketball for All program, our team has made a concerted effort to improve the City’s parks by renovating 60 basketball courts, including playing surfaces at Bradby, Chandler, Clark and Palmer parks. We view the Park Wi-Fi pilot program as an extension of our court renovation project and an opportunity to continue to make an impact on the City’s parks.”
