Like many places, Atlantic City’s economy was hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic. In response, City leadership made closing the digital divide a top priority in its strategy for economic and social recovery. To lead this effort, they assembled a cross-functional team of State and City representatives with expertise in finance, law, planning, engineering, social services, and project development. This team is particularly focused on removing the broadband affordability barrier that many residents currently face.

The Build Better Broadband grant will provide the roadmap the team needs to achieve its digital equity ambitions. As well as creating a robust plan to advance connectivity in Atlantic City, the master plan will help the City identify and pursue various sources of federal, state, and private capital needed to implement the plan. It will also be a critical resource for neighborhood community development corporations to inform their revitalization strategies.