FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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BALTIMORE, MD (Wednesday, December 13, 2023) – Today, Mayor Brandon M. Scott and the Baltimore City Office of Information and Technology (BCIT) released Baltimore City’s Digital Inclusion Strategy. The strategy outlines a comprehensive, forward-thinking approach to further develop Baltimore’s digital infrastructure and help residents and businesses harness the power of technology for their benefit, and the betterment of Baltimore.
You can read the full strategy here.
BCIT’s Office of Broadband and Digital Equity (BDE) oversaw development of the strategy and is a result of extensive collaboration with residents, community organizations, federal and state agencies, technology experts, and other stakeholders.
Four actionable goals help anchor the city’s activities and investments in the digital ecosystem.
- Reliable High-Speed Internet: Starting with the most underserved communities, Baltimore City residents will have access to affordable, reliable, high-speed internet based on investments in future-proof fiber optic networks.
- Technology and Devices: Baltimore City residents will be able to get a modern computing device.
- Digital Skills Training: Baltimore City residents will have access to digital skills training, helping them use computing devices and safely navigate the internet.
- Technical Support: Baltimore City residents will receive technical support — in multiple languages — to master internet access and devices.
The strategy also invites residents, businesses, community organizations, and federal and state agencies to collaboratively build long-term solutions in the areas of digital accessibility, confidence, safety and security, and infrastructure.
“Digital equity is not just about technology, it’s also about social equity and closing the digital divide is one of the biggest civil rights issues of our lifetimes,” said Mayor Brandon M. Scott. “My administration is committed to providing opportunities for all residents, regardless of their background or resources to get access and to secure the skills they need to thrive in a digital world. This strategy will be a catalyst for creating a more inclusive, prosperous, and digitally connected Baltimore.”
“This plan is a commitment to build a Baltimore that leaves no one behind in the digital age. The strategy will not only help enhance the quality of life for our residents, but also make Baltimore a more competitive and resilient city,” added BCIT’s BDE Director Kenya Asli.
For more information about the Digital Inclusion Strategy and to stay updated on its progress, visit bde.baltimorecity.gov.
About the Office of Broadband and Digital Equity
The Office of Broadband and Digital Equity (BDE), a division of BCIT, leads the City’s efforts to close the digital divide permanently and serves as Baltimore City government's primary liaison with internal and external stakeholders in digital equity. BDE envisions Baltimore as a city where residents can fully participate in the digital ecosystem and have access to devices, technical assistance, digital education, and affordable and reliable internet in the home. For more information about the city’s BDE programs and initiatives, sign up for BDE’s bi-monthly update, email bde@baltimorecity.gov or call (443) 984-9740.
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