Digital Equity In Pittsburgh
In his 2021 campaign, Mayor Ed Gainey highlighted digital equity as a problem for the region and began making steps to improve conditions for all residents that emphasized creating a foundation of connectivity for all residents. Mayor Gainey recognized that while often touted as a leader in technology and livability, thanks in part to world-class universities and a booming robotics industry, supporting resources haven’t always reached all residents in the Pittsburgh region.
Local and national surveys demonstrate that affordability is the biggest reason households do not subscribe to broadband (high-speed internet), and a lack of understanding for how to use a computer is a major contributing factor. Additionally, a 2022 Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission report on Equitable Broadband Access indicates that Seniors, Families with K-12 students, and Black citizens are disproportionately disconnected, and efforts should be taken to help these key populations.
2022
-PDEC created by a number of regional community service organizations
2023
-Community Strategic Plan created (link to PDEC member organizations page)
-Pittsburgh recognized by NDIA as a Digital Trailblazer for digital equity efforts
2024
-PDEC joined with more organizations in the Greater Pittsburgh Digital Inclusion Alliance to apply for FTIA funding under President Biden.
-NTIA chooses Pittsburgh’s Ammon Recreation Center to make their national announcement of $1.25 billion in digital equity grants and to celebrate Pittsburgh’s digital equity efforts.
-Pittsburgh receives second NDIA Digital Trailblazer award.
-CitiParks Rec2Tech program was awarded Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority Grant, which was used to purchase 100 computers for use in programming.
-Rec2Tech worked with upwards of 300 students throughout the Rec Centers. Classes including Ammons, Greenfield, Jefferson, and Paulson Recreation centers with some recurring and new students.
2025
-Mayor Ed Gainey will support the GPDIA as they apply for more funds to improve residents’ connectivity.
-Mayor Gainey has further plans to announce additional internet infrastructure improvements.
Four areas have been identified as having the greatest need for digital equity programming, with local organizations providing targeted support:
High quality, affordable internet services
- Despite service technically being available for most Pittsburghers, prices can sometimes be outside of the budgets of some residents. Though an option is available, residents are considered to be underserved since pricing does not reflect their financial resources.
- The United Way of Southwestern PA has resources and guidance on identifying available service options as well as subsidized plans for residents in need.
Computing devices to meet residents’ needs.
- Computer Reach is a Pittsburgh-based nonprofit that makes refurbished technology available to residents in need that has provided over 19,100 devices since its inception in 2001. Computer Reach has a warehouse located in Homewood in Pittsburgh, PA where residents can test out devices before purchasing in addition to Computer Lottery giveaways where residents can obtain devices at no cost.
Internet skills, knowledge and literacy.
- Without familiarity or a knowledge base of processes, residents may find difficulty in using resources made available to them.
- Multiple organizations servicing particular audiences offer free educational programming for residents of Allegheny County to develop digital literacy and workplace skills amongst other topics so they can utilize online tools and participate in the digital economy
These organizations serve these audiences:
Broad audience but also serves low-income/FPL/ALICE households, Immigrant and refugee populations, English Language Learners
Broad audience but also serves low-income/FPL/ALICE households
Older Adults
Justice Impacted Individuals
Accessible Technical Support
- After receiving devices and training there’s still the possibility that residents will encounter issues interfacing with technology.
- Computer Reach and Literacy Pittsburgh provide support for residents who encounter issues.
Who's Listening?
Chase Klingensmith
Digital Equity Program Analyst
Innovation & Performance
chase.klingensmith