Commerce Sec. Locke Announces $7.5 Million in Broadband Grants to Los Angeles

January 13, 2010 - Commerce Secretary Gary Locke, speaking Wednesday at the South Los Angeles WorkSource Center, announced the funding of a number of recovery projects, including $7.5 million to the city of Los Angeles for broadband. The grant will be used to expand Los Angeles’ computer access network. According to the Secretary’s statement:

• 35 youth and senior centers will be connected to high-speed Internet service for the first time with the installation of approximately 250 computer workstations;
• Internet access will also be expanded to vulnerable communities, such as those without English speakers or with low to moderate income levels; and
• City residents will be provided with access to job and computer training and online search engines, including the new Job Hunting Guide developed by the Los Angeles Public Library.

The funding will allow the city to install 2,700 new computers.

The event was also attended by Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and Senator Barbara Boxer.