By John Budenas, 22 News
CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) – Fifty apartments at a senior affordable housing complex in Chicopee will soon have free high-speed internet access through a state program aimed at improving connectivity in public and affordable housing.
Congressman Richard Neal joined representatives from the Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI), Preservation of Affordable Housing (POAH), and other officials to celebrate the installation of broadband service at Dom Narodowy Polski Apartments in downtown Chicopee.
The upgrades are being completed through MBI’s Residential Retrofit Program, which is funded by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Capital Projects Fund under the American Rescue Plan Act. MBI has awarded more than $74 million through the program to expand broadband access across Massachusetts.
The Residential Retrofit Program is designed to modernize outdated wiring and install fiber-optic infrastructure in public and affordable housing developments, allowing residents to access reliable internet for services such as telehealth appointments, education and communication with family and friends.
Under the project, internet provider Aervivo will deliver broadband service to all 50 apartments at Dom Narodowy Polski, offering income-eligible plans with speeds ranging from 100 Mbps to 1,000 Mbps. Residents will also receive laptop computers, and Tech Foundry will provide digital skills training.
POAH will cover the cost of internet service, allowing all households at the complex to receive high-speed internet at no charge.
“Five years after becoming law, we are still talking about the American Rescue Plan. Having authored much of this legislation during my time as Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, I take great satisfaction in seeing communities throughout western and central Massachusetts continuing to reap the benefits of our historic legislative achievements,” said Congressman Richard E. Neal. “Whether it be for medical appointments or staying connected with loved ones, having access to reliable internet is critical for our seniors. This announcement is a reminder of the notion that legislation changes lives, and I am grateful to MassTech and POAH for using these funds to bring this project to fruition.”
“MBI’s investment in infrastructure upgrades at Dom Narodoy Polski Apartments is providing residents with the resources needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world,” said MBI Director Michael Baldino.
“POAH is very grateful for these broadband upgrades that will allow our senior residents to stay connected to the world around them,” said POAH President and CEO Aaron Gornstein. “This internet access will help residents stay socially connected and access services remotely such as educational opportunities and telehealth appointments.”
Since launching in February 2024, MBI’s Residential Retrofit Program has committed $74 million to bring high-speed internet to more than 33,000 public and affordable housing units in more than 100 Massachusetts communities. Households in 13 municipalities are currently participating in the program.
