Stay Connected: Free Wi-Fi Rolling Out In 5 Detroit Parks
Five parks in Detroit are getting free public Wi-Fi and charging stations. It’s part of a pilot program happening in Bradby Park, Chandler Park, Clark Park, McDuffy Park, and Palmer Park. It’s part of an effort to increase internet accessibility in the city.
The Detroit Parks Coalition (DPC), in collaboration with the city and Connect 313, is bridging the internet access gaps in the community. They know that without internet access, people can miss out on so many essential things like completing everyday tasks, staying informed, working, studying, and more. That’s why they’re bringing these Wi-Fi installations to city parks to make sure everyone has equal opportunities to thrive and stay connected.
“Connect technology with being outdoors.”
“Detroit’s parks are our common grounds,” said Sigal Hemy, executive director of DPC. “We are thrilled that our neighborhood parks will help bridge the digital divide and elevate quality of life for all Detroiters.”
“This is a fantastic opportunity to connect technology with being outdoors,” Alex Allen, DPC’s board president added. “Visitors can enhance their park experience by researching what they find in nature, or streaming music or their favorite show.”
This pilot program is made possible by the Detroit Pistons, Rocket Community Fund, and Knight Foundation. They have generously granted a total of $265,000 to fund this initiative. The funding covers everything from infrastructure installation to five years of service, all provided by Cronus Internet.
Wi-Fi construction will begin immediately and continue through the Fall of 2023. Grant funding will also support charging stations in each of the selected parks.
A 2017 Metro Times cover story reported that about 40% of the city had no internet connection, what critics said amounted to “digital redlining” that left Detroiters at a disadvantage.
The Equitable Internet Initiative (EII) is also working to address internet access in Detroit through neighborhood-governed community wireless networks. They said since 2015, Detroit has been one of the country’s worst-connected cities. In a city with a median household income of $26,249, 38% of homes have no Internet connection, 63% of low-income homes have no in-home broadband, and 70% of school-age children have no Internet access at home.
Monroe Street Midway Returns To Downtown Detroit This Summer
Monroe Street Midway is returning to Downtown Detroit this summer with activities and entertainment for the whole family. However, this will be Monroe Street Midway’s final season in its current location. Bedrock unveiled updated plans for its Monroe Block project earlier this year.
Opening on May 18, guests will have the opportunity to experience a series of playground-style attractions, the Rollout Detroit Roller Rink, Rocket Mortgage Sports Zone, and more.
Since its launch, Midway has welcomed more than 240,000 guests and helped generate support for local businesses.
“The Monroe Street Midway provides Detroiters of all ages with accessible and ‘uniquely Detroit’ entertainment options, while spotlighting local entrepreneurs and Detroit artists,” said Ivy Greaner, Bedrock’s Chief Operating Officer. “The Midway has welcomed more than 240,000 guests and helped generate substantial support for local businesses. It continues to surpass our expectations and has become a special place to create long-lasting memories.”
The Midway will open on Thursday, May 18, and will operate Thursday through Sunday, weather permitting, through Labor Day weekend.
Entry is free into the Midway, the Rocket Mortgage Sports Zone, for mini golf, and playground activities. Roller skating is $13 per person which includes skate rental.
“RollerCade is thrilled for the city to see the all-new Midway for this summer. Everyone has put in work to elevate the entire Midway experience. As amazing as our past summers have been for downtown Detroit and RollerCade alike, we believe this summer is going to be the biggest and best one yet,” said Kyle Black, owner of RollerCade.
Take a look at what’s to come to Monroe Street Midway Downtown Detroit below.
Kayla is the midday host on Detroit’s 105.1 The Bounce. She started her career in radio back in 2016 as an intern at another Detroit station and worked her way here. She's made stops in Knoxville, TN, Omaha, Ne and other places before returning to Detroit. She’s done almost everything in radio from promotions to web, creating content on social media, you name it.
She’s a true Michigander, born and raised. So, you can catch her camping or vacationing up north to exploring the downtown Detroit or maybe even catching a sports game. During her free time, Kayla enjoys watching movies, roller-skating, crafting, and music festivals. She and her husband together dip into many of the great things Michigan has to offer. Together they also like to travel.
A few hobbies of hers include wine and beer tastings, crafting, hiking, roller skating, movies, home improvement projects, gardening, and festivals. She’s always looking to take on more local events happening in the community.
She loves connecting with the community. When writing, Kayla covers topics including lifestyle, pop culture, trending stories, hacks, and urban culture.
