Congressman Castro Announces &1 Million WiFi Expansion for San Antonio Public Housing Residents

Press Release

Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) announced $1 million to the San Antonio Housing Authority (SAHA) for a Wi-Fi Expansion Project, which will increase Wi-Fi internet access to all public housing properties. Congressman Castro submitted this project on behalf of SAHA to the House Appropriations Committee for federal funding. The project is included in the House Appropriations Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies funding bill.

"COVID exposed how essential it is for families to access the Internet at home, but many hardworking folks cannot afford WiFi. I requested this federal funding to expand WiFi to all San Antonio public housing residents," said Congressman Castro. "No matter where you live or how much money your family makes, everyone deserves Internet access at home. This $1 million investment from Congress will help close the digital divide in San Antonio. I'm thrilled to see this funding for San Antonio Housing Authority included in the federal spending bill, which is expected to pass the House next week, and I hope it helps students complete their homework online and makes life easier for families striving for a better future."

"With one in four San Antonio families lacking Internet access and the digital divide even wider at San Antonio Housing Authority (SAHA) communities, SAHA is making the extraordinary step to provide Wi-Fi access to all 60,000 of our residents, many of whom are the most economically disadvantaged in our community," said Ed Hinojosa, Jr., President and CEO for the San Antonio Housing Authority. "We are grateful for Rep. Joaquin Castro's unwavering commitment to close the digital divide for our SAHA residents and the larger San Antonio community."

Background:

San Antonio Housing Authority's Wi-Fi Expansion project will utilize smart mesh technology to provide free Wi-Fi internet service to all Public Housing properties and Beacon portfolio properties. The project will provide much-needed internet access to some of the most economically disadvantaged members in the community.

Source