Today, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, City Councilmember LaTrisha Vetaw, and Comcast Regional Senior Vice President Kalyn Hove joined MPHA staff and residents at Hamilton Manor in North Minneapolis to announce a technology partnership with Comcast aiming to make all MPHA high-rise units Wi-Fi ready over the next several years, with 25 percent of all high-rise units scheduled to be completed by the end of June 2025. The partnership will install modems in resident units as well as free public Wi-Fi and internet-connected TVs in all high-rise common spaces and community rooms. The total investment is estimated at $1.8 million.

“Internet access is not a luxury, it is a core need in today’s world,” said Abdi Warsame, Executive Director/CEO of the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority. “MPHA residents need fast, affordable, reliable internet to access healthcare and educational services, stay connected with friends and family, and keep up to date with what’s happening in their community. This partnership equips MPHA residents with everything they need to stay connected, I am thankful to Comcast for this major investment.”

“Connecting public housing to the internet is about more than technology, we’re providing opportunity,” said Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. “This partnership between the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority and Comcast will empower our residents with the tools they need to succeed. Together, we’re building a more connected and prosperous community.”

“As a council member, I know how crucial it is for our senior community to stay connected, especially in today’s world where so much happens online,” said Minneapolis City Councilmember LaTrisha Vetaw. “Pre-installing Wi-Fi in all public housing units is a huge step forward in ensuring our seniors have the tools they need to access healthcare, stay connected with loved ones, and engage with important services. This partnership with Comcast is not just about technology; it’s about improving quality of life and making sure our seniors aren’t left behind. I’m incredibly proud to be part of this important initiative.”

“Installing our Xfinity Wi-Fi in public housing units is a transformative step towards ensuring digital opportunity for all residents,” said Kalyn Hove, Regional Senior Vice President, Comcast Midwest. “This partnership with Minneapolis Public Housing Authority will provide essential connectivity, enabling access to educational resources, job opportunities, healthcare services, community engagement and more. We are committed to empowering residents to thrive in today’s interconnected world.”

To date, Comcast has finished work at three of MPHA’s 42 high-rises, including recently finishing work at Hamilton Manor, the host location for the day’s event. Work to complete installations at additional MPHA high-rises is planned to occur over the next several years.

All MPHA residents are eligible for Xfinity’s contract-free Internet Essentials plan, providing low-cost internet access, discounted computers, and free access to hundreds of hours of digital skills training. Should MPHA residents use Xfinity, their upgraded unit is service ready, meaning they do not need a technician visit and can connect all their devices to the unit’s modem by calling Xfinity or using the Xfinity App at their convenience. Further, should residents need the support of a technician, service requests will be coordinated by MPHA’s property management staff, saving residents the time and expense of a technician visit.

Importantly, MPHA residents are not required to use Xfinity services and can continue to use the internet service provider of their choice with their unit’s new and/or improved internet connectivity.