Peoria County, Illinois, Launches Digital Equity Pilot to Bridge the Digital Divide

Peoria County (IL) has launched a Digital Equity Pilot program designed to provide low-cost or no-cost internet access to eligible low-income households. The initiative is funded through a $125,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity. The importance of reliable internet access became undeniable during the COVID-19 pandemic, when it shifted from being a luxury to a necessity for daily life. The Digital Equity Pilot is a response to this growing need, aiming to help residents secure high-speed internet for essential activities such as remote work, online learning, and telehealth services. Led by Peoria County’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Unit, the program is being developed in collaboration with the Information & Technology Working Group of the City/County Joint Commission on Racial Justice and Equity. Peoria County has partnered with leading internet providers—Mediacom, Comcast, Tel-Star Communications, and Mid Century Fiber—to offer packages that meet federal standards, ensuring speeds of at least 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload.