Public hearings will begin next month on the roll out of free Wi-Fi internet service for City residents.
The City of Toronto is planning to offer free Wi-Fi internet service at public building, parks and access zones.
Public discussions will begin virtually on May 30 and June 18 and in person on June 4 at the Driftwood Community Centre and June 13 at the Heron Park Community Centre.
City officials in a ConnectTO Wi-Fi Strategy said the free service is now provided at 100 Toronto public libraries, community and recreation centres, which serves 7,000 users daily.
Free Wi-Fi will be provided at City parks and access zones, some with couches and tables.
They plan to expand the service to all City buildings, parks and so-called Wi-Fi zones ‘where users can access the internet comfortably.’
“The gap that exists between those who have affordable internet access and the skills to use modern information and communication technology and those who do not is called the digital divide,” according to ConnectTO.
“It is widely understood socio-economic inequalities like disparities in income, age, education, race, Indigeneity and ability sustain the divide,” City officials said.
There will also be charging stations where residents can plug in and charge up their devices.
They said ‘by offering free Wi-Fi in publicly accessible spaces owned or operated by the City, we’re working towards a digitally equitable Toronto.’
The City plans to provide information on the free Wi-Fi service in resource packages like services for seniors, newcomers, and MyAccesstoHousingTO applicants. They also intend to provide the service in warming and cooling centres.
The service will also be available when people seek City services, which will be listed. The City will also partner with local organizations to identify and address the needs of underserved communities.
Staff will also enhance user experience and encourage usage by providing couches, tables or privacy features so users are comfortable.
The City will provide a webpage listing its services and where you can access free Wi-Fi.
The City will display signage with information on how to connect and troubleshooting at all locations, through pamphlets, brochures or cards and create a webpage linking all low-cost internet service provider plans including eligibility requirements.
Also proposed is the partnering with local Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) to enhance experiences by offering free Wi-Fi, connecting people to more information.
They will also create and display QR codes at public locations like monuments and discovery walks, to provide more information to users. Also planned is the installation of secure charging ports painted by local artists in outdoor spaces so users may leave devices to charge without fear of theft.