The Baltimore City Office of Information and Technology recently released a report, “Broadband and Digital Equity: Progress, Success and Lessons Learned,” highlighting the city’s successes in closing the digital divide and advancing Baltimore’s Digital Inclusion Strategy.
The report was developed in collaboration with the mayor’s office and the Office of Broadband and Digital Equity (BDE), a division of the Baltimore City Office of Information and Technology.
“Baltimore’s Digital Inclusion Strategy is our strategic roadmap for advancing digital equity across our city,” said Mayor Brandon Scott. “Through targeted investments, thoughtful partnerships, and community-driven initiatives, we are making real progress in closing the digital divide.”
“This report highlights the impact of our approach and reaffirms our commitment to ensuring every resident has the tools and access needed to thrive in a connected world,” Scott added. “While we’ve made significant strides, our work is far from finished.”
The report highlights several programs and partnerships that have helped advance the city’s digital equity goals:
- Expansion of FreeBmoreWiFi: Baltimore expanded the reach of FreeBmoreWiFi, its free public Wi-Fi network, to underserved neighborhoods.
- Digital Skills Training: The city has worked with local nonprofits and organizations to deliver digital skills training programs to thousands of residents.
- Device Distribution and Support: Through initiatives such as the Baltimore Chromebook Distribution Program, the city has provided thousands of devices to families and individuals in need.
Looking to the future, the report also highlights upcoming digital equity and broadband goals. The mayor’s office noted that upcoming initiatives include the expansion of affordable broadband access to public housing, additional digital skills training programs tailored to youth and older adults, and deeper collaboration with community organizations to ensure Baltimore’s most vulnerable populations are connected and equipped with digital resources.
“This report not only captures the milestones we’ve achieved but also showcases the real-world impact on our communities,” said Baltimore City’s Interim Chief Information Officer Leyla Layman. “From expanding broadband access to providing digital literacy resources, every initiative moves us closer to a more connected and inclusive Baltimore. We remain steadfast in our commitment to bridging the digital divide for all residents.”
