Sen. Eldridge, Rep. Sena, and Rep. Cataldo Announce $202,005 MassTech Grant to Improve Internet Access in Acton Housing
The Retrofit Ancillary Grantee (RANGE) Program supports public housing developments in implementing new broadband technologies equitably and efficiently
Acton, MA – State Senator Jamie Eldridge (D-Marlborough), State Representative Danillo Sena (D-Acton), and State Representative Simon Cataldo (D-Concord) are proud to announce that the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative has awarded $202,005 to the Melrose Housing Authority through the Retrofit Ancillary Grantee (RANGE) Program. The grant will support the Acton Housing Authority through collaboration with the Melrose Housing Authority as they install state-of-the-art broadband cabling.
RANGE funds are distributed to housing operators previously awarded grants through the Residential Retrofit Program. The Residential Retrofit Program provides grant opportunities for eligible affordable, public housing developments to expand access to high-quality broadband internet services. Contracts are awarded to certified Internet Service Providers (ISPs) who install, own, and maintain the equipment installed at these developments. With modern internet services, residents are able to work from home, pursue educational opportunities, and attend telehealth appointments with greater ease.
RANGE grants provide housing operators with access to resources that ensure new digital infrastructure is fully utilized. Examples of possible investments include digital navigators or tenant coordinators, digital literacy courses, public space improvements, and device distribution. These investments ensure that housing operators and residents can access the tools and support needed to maximize use of the newly installed technology.
“Equitable access to high-quality internet promotes economic mobility and higher quality of life, uplifting individuals living in public and affordable housing,” said State Senator Jamie Eldridge. “I consider internet access now a public good, which means to me that all Massachusetts residents should have affordable access to high-speed internet, including those who live in public housing I am grateful to the Healy-Driscoll Administration, Chief Executive Officer of MassTech Carolyn Kirk, the Melrose Housing Authority Board of Commissioners, and the Acton Housing Authority Board of Commissioners for implementing this life changing program. The Residential Retrofit and Range programs offer comprehensive support to housing operators as they meet the needs of their residents and communities.”
“The Residential Retrofit and Range programs are an essential way to bring high quality internet to affordable housing. We know that access to the internet is key to improving the quality of life and economic opportunity for those living in these units,” said Rep. Sena. “I’m thankful for Healey-Driscoll Administration, Chief Executive Officer of MassTech Carolyn Kirk, the Melrose Housing Authority Board of Commissioners, and the Acton Housing Authority Board of Commissioners for their work on this program.”
"Increasingly, the internet is where employment opportunities are posted, where breaking news is first shared, and how people stay in touch with friends and loved ones. In short, access to the internet is essential," said Rep. Cataldo. "I’m thankful for Healey-Driscoll Administration, Chief Executive Officer of MassTech Carolyn Kirk, the Melrose Housing Authority Board of Commissioners, and the Acton Housing Authority Board of Commissioners for bringing equitable access to Wi-Fi to Acton."
The Residential Retrofit and RANGE programs utilize federal funds from the U.S. Treasury’s Capital Projects Fund, enacted by the American Rescue Plan Act. RANGE grants from the Residential Retrofit Program are released in three cycles throughout the year and awarded amounts will be calibrated to ensure equal access to funding for applicants during each cycle.
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