ZenFi Networks, a leader of digital infrastructure solutions in the New York and New Jersey metro region, celebrated the expansion of its mission to bridge the digital divide throughout the New York City metro area.
ZenFi Networks is partnered with CityBridge, which operates one of the world’s largest public Wi-Fi networks, LinkNYC. ZenFi is deploying, operating and expanding free public Wi-Fi, using LinkNYC smart public communications structures across New York City to ensure reliable 5G network connectivity.
As part of its agreement with the City of New York, CityBridge must develop publicly accessible digital facilities that can create the potential for social good and is on its way to fulfilling that responsibility in partnership with ZenFi Networks.
In February, ZenFi Networks attended a ribbon-cutting event at the Silicon Harlem Gigabit Center to celebrate the first Gigabit Center in New York City. The Gigabit Center is set to provide high-speed internet, technology innovation and small business development powered by the free LinkNYC public Wi-Fi. This Gigabit Center was a collaboration among the city of New York, Intersection, ZenFi Networks, CityBridge, LinkNYC, Silicon Harlem and the C-Better Foundation.
CityBridge and its partner organizations plan for the development of similar gigabit centers across New York City, including Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn and Staten Island. These facilities will provide free public Wi-Fi access via the LinkNYC network, along with digital literacy training, free access to laptops and workstations, and other services to further help bridge the digital divide.
In addition to the Gigabit Centers, ZenFi Networks plans to build out additional infrastructure across New York City to support the development of LinkNYC kiosks in areas identified as “fiber deserts.” According to the New York City Internet Master Plan, approximately 40 percent of New York City households lack the combination of home and mobile broadband internet connectivity. Among that group, 18 percent of residents, accounting for more than 1.5 million people, lack both in their neighborhoods.
ZenFi Networks has fiber construction plans to support the deployment of LinkNYC to address the disparity in these areas and is working with wireless broadband service providers to use their whole platform to extend their networks to building services.
For more information about ZenFi Networks, visit www.zenfi.com.