New York’s big Wi-Fi win is getting even bigger
What if we told you that thousands of New York City families are getting free, high-speed internet — and it’s already changing lives? That’s exactly what’s happening through Liberty Link, the exciting new expansion of the city’s “Big Apple Connect” program.
If you live in NYC or just love good news, this story is about empowerment, opportunity, and how a stronger internet connection can lead to a stronger city.
From big apple connect to liberty link: A quick catch-up
Let’s rewind a bit.
In 2022, Mayor Eric Adams launched Big Apple Connect, which brought free broadband internet to over 200 New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) buildings. The impact? Huge. Families saved an average of $1,700 per year — money that could go to groceries, bills, or education.
Fast forward to 2025, and now Liberty Link is here to expand that mission.
What is liberty link?
Liberty Link is the city’s newest tech-powered initiative to close the digital divide and make sure everyone has access to the internet — not just those who can afford it.
Here’s the deal in simple terms:
- It’s FREE: Internet access comes at no cost to residents.
- It’s FAST: The program uses fiber optic broadband to bring high-speed internet to homes.
- It’s ACCESSIBLE: Focused on affordable housing units and Section 8 buildings in underserved areas.
- It’s POWERFUL: It will even include digital literacy training to help families get the most from their connection.
Where is the liberty link launching first?
In its first phase, Liberty Link is rolling out in two NYC districts:
- The Bronx
- Upper Manhattan
Specifically, the program will connect 2,200 households in 35 affordable housing buildings. That means thousands of New Yorkers—many of whom have struggled to afford internet access—will soon be online, for free.
Did you know? According to the Bronx Community Foundation, 22% of households in the Bronx still lack internet access. That’s nearly 1 in 4 families! Liberty Link aims to fix that.
Mayor Adams flips the switch
To kick things off, Mayor Eric Adams literally turned on a Wi-Fi router at the Bronx Library Center, symbolizing the city’s commitment to digital access.
“As our cities become more automated and artificial intelligence becomes more involved in daily life, the internet is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity,” Adams said during the press event.
And he’s right. From applying for jobs to doing homework to telehealth and childcare requests, access to the internet is crucial in 2025.
How much is this going to cost? (spoiler: not you!)
The total cost of the Liberty Link pilot is $3.2 million, and no — residents won’t pay a penny.
The funding covers:
- Building fiber optic infrastructure
- Setting up Wi-Fi networks inside buildings
- Supporting digital education and technical support for residents
Who’s behind the magic?
Liberty Link is powered by a public-private partnership involving:
- NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD)
- New York Public Library (NYPL)
- Plus help from tech providers, nonprofits, and community groups
It’s not just about installing routers. The goal is to build a long-term, scalable system that could eventually cover all five boroughs.
When will it start?
Here’s the timeline:
- Summer 2025: Network design and technology procurement begin
- End of 2025: First wave of installations and connections go live
- Next 3 years: The pilot program will be tested, refined, and (hopefully) scaled up citywide
That means by early 2026, thousands more households could be surfing, streaming, learning, and job-hunting at full speed.
Why it matters: real people, real change
Let’s be real: we all depend on the internet more than ever before. No one should have to sit in a fast food restaurant just to submit a job application or use public Wi-Fi to do homework.
Liberty Link is more than a tech project — it’s about closing inequality gaps, giving families the tools to succeed, and building a more connected New York.
Dr. Larry Johnson Jr., president of Bronx Community College, summed it up perfectly:
“This program will transform the lives of thousands… by providing reliable internet access and the digital literacy skills needed to thrive.”
How Liberty link could save you $1,700 a year
Still not convinced this is a big deal?
Let’s do the math: The average household internet bill in NYC is around $140 per month. That’s $1,680 a year. With Liberty Link, that cost disappears.
That’s a lot of extra cash for groceries, rent, school supplies — or maybe even a much-needed vacation.
What’s next for Liberty Link?
After the 3-year pilot wraps up, the city will study what worked, what didn’t, and how the program can grow.
If it succeeds (and it looks like it will), Liberty Link could expand to thousands more buildings across the five boroughs, potentially revolutionizing internet access for millions of people.
A city that connects, grows together
Mayor Adams’ Liberty Link isn’t just about faster internet — it’s about equal opportunity in the digital age.
So, whether you’re a student, a senior, a job seeker, or just trying to watch your favorite Netflix show without buffering, this program is for you.
And hey — if you’re one of the lucky 2,200 households included in phase one — congrats! You’re about to get connected, for free.
Want more updates on programs that change lives? Visit Polifinus.com — your one-stop source for fun, simple, and exciting news that matters.
