The city will launch one of the nation’s largest free public Wi-Fi networks in Harlem—just in time for the holidays, Mayor Michael Bloomberg announced last week.
The new Wi-Fi network will cover about 95 city blocks in the area. The Wi-Fi will go from 110th Street and Frederick Douglas Boulevard near Central Park, reaching up to 138th Street and Madison Avenue. The Free Wi-Fi is a part of a long-term initiative by the city to beef up free Internet access across the city.
“Our new Harlem wireless network brings critical connectivity to residents and visitors, giving them 24/7 access to everything from education materials for kids to information about Harlem’s rich history and attractions to everyday needs like paying bills, checking library hours or even just keeping tabs on the Knicks and Nets,” Mr. Bloomberg said. “In 2013, being successful requires being connected; thanks to the Fuhrman Family Foundation and the Mayor’s Fund, we are wiring nearly 100 blocks in Harlem and giving 80,000 New Yorkers another tool for success.”
The New York City Technology Development Corporation and the Department of Information Technology and Telecommunications are both involved in executing the project. The project to provide free Internet in Harlem will be completed in three phases. The first phase of the project, which includes 110th Street up to 120th Street, will be completed by May 2014.
