Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott launches first phase of free public Wi-Fi 

By Tashi McQueenAFRO Political Writertmcqueen@afro.com Mayor Brandon M. Scott, alongside other city officials, recently announced the launch of free public Wi-Fi for Baltimoreans and visitors.& “In this digital age, digital equity is one of the defining civil rights issues of our time,” said Scott. “We must work to close the digital divide to help shape the future of our communities and of Baltimore.”& According to Baltimore’s Digital Inclusion Strategy, 73 percent of white households have broadband access compared to 50 percent of Black households. About 38 percent of low-income households lack a computer device or only have access to a smartphone.& “‘FreeBmoreWiFi’ is about more than internet access. It’s about inclusivity and helps residents leverage the power of technology for their benefit,” said Todd Carter, chief information officer of the City of Baltimore.& Baltimore’s Digital Inclusion Strategy will span 2024 to 2029, tackling four main areas to address the digital divide. Through this initiative, the city will ensure all Baltimore residents can access reliable high-speed internet, modern technology, digital skills training, and multilingual technical support. The Office of Broadband and Digital Equity (BDE), a division of the Baltimore City Office of Information and Technology (BCIT), is in charge of implementing...