$13 Million to Bring Affordable High-Speed Internet to 14,000 NY Households
New York Invests $13 Million to Bring Affordable High-Speed Internet to Thousands
ALBANY, N.Y. – Governor Kathy Hochul announced a major investment Thursday, allocating over $13 million to bridge the digital divide and bring affordable, high-speed internet access to more than 14,000 low-income households across New York State.The funding, sourced from the Affordable Housing Connectivity Program, will provide discounted broadband service options through 2034. Eligible households in Buffalo, Rochester, upper Manhattan, and the Bronx can choose from plans starting at just $10 per month for 100/20 Mbps service, with gigabit-speed options available for $30 per month.“In today’s digital age, access to reliable, affordable high-speed internet isn’t just about convenience – it’s about ensuring every New Yorker can participate fully in our modern economy and society,” Governor Hochul saeid. “Through these strategic investments, we’re not only installing fiber and infrastructure, we’re opening doors to education, healthcare and economic chance. By delivering affordable broadband solutions to our affordable housing communities and supporting county-led initiatives,we’re creating a more connected and equitable New York.”
this initiative is part of the state’s broader ConnectALL program, aimed at expanding broadband access across New York.
“These strategic investments are critical to achieving digital equity across New York State,” said Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight. “Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, we are providing the infrastructure necessary for communities to thrive, supporting residents in affordable housing and ensuring rural counties have access to modern broadband solutions. Through the ConnectALL initiative, we’re not just laying fiber – we’re laying the foundation for stronger, more connected communities where every New Yorker has the tools thay need to succeed in the digital economy.”
Funding Breakdown:
New York City Region: $4,573,875 will connect 88 properties across the Bronx and New York counties, encompassing 126 buildings and 4,854 units, covering approximately 13 miles of fiber.
finger Lakes Region: $3,930,473 will serve 51 properties in the Rochester metro area (Monroe and Ontario counties), covering 305 buildings and 4,280 units, and approximately 12 miles of fiber.
* western New York Region: $4,678,197 will connect 39 properties in the Buffalo metro area (Erie County), serving 349 buildings and 5,033 units, and approximately 14 miles of fiber.
“This $13 million investment will help bridge the digital divide and make our communities more connected for generations to come,” added New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas. “Thanks to Governor Hochul, the Affordable Housing connectivity Program is improving quality-of-life for over 14,000 households across the state by ensuring all families, especially those in underserved neighborhoods, have the tools they need to thrive.”
Flume Internet, a leading internet service provider, will leverage this funding to expand its footprint in New York city and bring new service to Buffalo and Rochester. Residents will have the choice of three service tiers: 100/20 Mbps for $10/month, 200/200 Mbps for $15/month, and 1000/1000 Mbps for $30/month, all with included Wi-Fi.
Bridging the Digital Divide: interview with Flume Internet CEO
NewsDirect3: Today we’re joined by [Flume Internet CEO Name],CEO of Flume Internet,the company tasked with bringing affordable,high-speed internet to over 14,000 low-income households across New York State thanks to a $13 million investment from Governor Hochul.
Welcome, [CEO Name].
[CEO Name]: Thank you for having me.
NewsDirect3: This is a notable investment in bridging the digital divide. Can you tell us more about Flume Internet’s role in this initiative?
[CEO Name]: We are incredibly excited to partner with the state on this crucial project. Flume Internet is committed to providing reliable and affordable broadband access to everyone,regardless of their income. This funding will allow us to expand our network in New York City, Buffalo, and Rochester, bringing high-speed internet to thousands of households who have been underserved for far too long.
NewsDirect3: What specific plans will you offer to these households?
[CEO Name]: We’re proud to offer three tiered plans, starting at just $10 per month for 100/20 Mbps service, making truly affordable high-speed internet accessible to all. We’ll also offer 200/200 Mbps plans for $15/month and gigabit-speed options for $30/month, all with included WiFi.
NewsDirect3: How will this impact the lives of these families and individuals?
[CEO Name]: Access to affordable, high-speed internet is transformative. It opens up opportunities for education, healthcare, job searching, and staying connected with loved ones. It helps level the playing field and creates a more equitable society.
NewsDirect3: What are your hopes for the future of broadband access in New York State?
[CEO Name]: My hope is that this initiative is just the beginning. We need to continue to invest in bridging the digital divide and ensuring that everyone in New York State has access to the opportunities that come with reliable, affordable internet access.
NewsDirect3: Thank you for your time and insights, [CEO Name].
[CEO Name]: Thank you for having me.