New program launched in Biddeford to improve access to high speed internet service

Southern Maine Planning and Development (SMPDC), along with McArthur Library and Biddeford Adult Education, has launched a Digital Device Distribution pilot program focused on Biddeford, which will provide access to high-speed internet service for participating Biddeford residents.

The program is funded by a grant from the Maine Connectivity Authority. The project involves distributing portable wireless internet hotspots with bundled internet subscriptions to adult education students and library patrons during the summer and fall of this year.

This new program, the first of its kind in this area, will help to advance the region-wide Digital Inclusion Plan drafted by the York County Digital Inclusion Coalition in 2023 by ensuring that students and families have reliable access to the internet.

 “We’ve heard many stories about folks having to park their vehicles at a local McDonalds or town hall parking lot in order to use free wi-fi service because of a lack of reliable home internet service, or an inability to afford an internet subscription,” said SMPDC Director of Strategic Initiatives James Rather.  “This program will help participants complete their educational studies and gain the skills needed to bolster Maine’s economy, and with future infusions of state and federal dollars, will provide a model that can be scaled up to serve many more households.

Access to the internet provided by the Wi-Fi hotspots will be used by both the Multi-Language Learners at Biddeford Adult Education, and their families, reaching approximately fifty people, said Biddeford Adult Education Director Dave Durkee.

A single, secure hotspot device can provide internet access for a whole household. Participants in the program, in addition to checking out a Wi-Fi- hotspot from the library, received library cards to access all services the library provides to the community.

“This important partnership is helping ensure that our students are connected to not only online academic and vocational learning environments but also resources for post-secondary and career aspirations. These free hotspot devices are a powerful tool for success,” said Durkee.

McArthur Public Library Technology Coordinator Joe Sanderson noted that in today’s world, fulfilling life’s most basic needs, such as finding work and housing or access to health care, requires access to the internet.

“For those who are new to our country, online access is even more important as the needs are so great. Access to library services and the internet through provided Wi-Fi hotspots will enable these students and their families to more fully participate in society,” said Sanderson.