COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
MASSACHUSETTS SENATE
STATE HOUSE, BOSTON 02133
Senator Joan B. Lovely
State Senator
2nd Essex District
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 3, 2024
Salem Affordable Housing Developments Awarded Broadband Infrastructure Grants
Funding will improve internet access for low-income residents
(BOSTON—2/3/2025) Senate Assistant Majority Leader Joan B. Lovely (D-Salem) is pleased to announce that two Salem affordable housing developments have been awarded grants through the Massachusetts Broadband Institute’s Residential Retrofit Program.
The program, funded by the U.S. Department of Treasury Capital Projects Fund, provides state-of-the-art fiber-optic internet infrastructure to public and affordable housing properties to ensure that residents have access to high-quality, reliable, and affordable broadband service.
Loring Towers has been awarded $200,254.26 to upgrade broadband infrastructure for 250 units, while Fairweather Apartments has been awarded $303,054.33 to enhance internet access for 321 units.
“Currently, too many low-income households still face barriers to broadband, but in our digital world, internet access is a bare necessity for any household, ensuring access to everything from remote work and education opportunities to telehealth and so much more,” said Senator Lovely. “This investment will ensure that residents of Loring Towers and Fairweather Apartments have the connectivity they need to thrive.”
The Residential Retrofit Program provides grants for fiber optic cabling upgrades, enabling qualified Internet Service Providers to install, own, and maintain modern broadband equipment. These improvements will bridge the digital divide and expand opportunities for residents in public and affordable housing.
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