NYC Mayor Adams Extends Free Internet Program Until 2028 Amid Criticism
Outgoing New York City Mayor Eric Adams has extended the Big Apple Connect program, which offers free internet to 333,000 public housing residents. The move, however, has sparked criticism from City Council members who argue that the decision was made without proper public disclosure.
The extension, announced by Adams who is now a lame duck mayor, will see the program continue until June 2028. This is made possible through contract extensions with Altice USA and Spectrum. The next mayor, Zohran Mamdani, who is set to take office after the November 2025 election, will inherit this decision.
The program's cost over the next three years is estimated at approximately $114 million. Councilmember Chris Banks has criticized Adams' decision, stating that the City Council may not have the power to intervene in the contract extension. City Council members have scheduled a hearing to grill the administration on the covert surveillance expansion the following day.
The Big Apple Connect program, which provides free internet to NYCHA residents, has been extended until 2028. The extension's cost and lack of public disclosure have raised concerns among City Council members. The incoming mayor, Zohran Mamdani, will have to address these issues upon taking office.
