Solving Baltimore’s digital divide requires all voices at the table

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) will provide massive opportunities for local and state organizations across the country. The IIJA offers over $500 billion in federal funding to improve all forms of American infrastructure—including broadband internet access infrastructure. Of this, $2.75 billion will be distributed to states through Digital Equity Act programs that aim to ensure all residents have the skills and capacity to engage in the digital economy. This is a once-in-a-generation investment that can help Baltimore (MD) in profound ways by providing resources to address infrastructure at the local level. Additionally, a compelling application for digital equity funds will require community engagement. So, the time is now for Baltimore to build a meaningful public engagement process. The Robert W. Deutsch Foundation believes in establishing a “commission” with local and national experts charged with building a public record, on behalf of the mayor, to inform the city’s digital equity priorities. With a focus on critical areas like telehealth, workforce development, the creative economy, and consumer protections, public hearings in each Baltimore City Council district would offer a powerful mechanism to elevate high-impact opportunities. 

[Amalia Deloney is the vice president and director of digital equity for the Robert W Deutsch Foundation.]