Monroe County Executive Adam Bello announces $3 million in ARPA funding to expand free digital training programs and home Wi-Fi access across underserved neighborhoods

Monroe County, New York – In a significant move to tackle the persistent digital divide, Monroe County Executive Adam Bello has unveiled a $3 million investment funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The funding will fuel a major expansion of digital training and internet accessibility across the county as part of the Monroe County Library System’s “Wired for Opportunity” initiative.

With this investment, the county is taking bold steps to ensure that residents—especially older adults and underserved populations in both urban Rochester and rural parts of the county—are not left behind in today’s increasingly digital world.

“This is about more than Wi-Fi or devices — it’s about giving people the tools and opportunities to succeed,” said County Executive Adam Bello. “Whether it’s finding a job, learning a new skill, or staying connected, Monroe County is committed to ensuring every resident has the tools and access they need to succeed — no matter their age, background or zip code. I’m grateful to the Monroe County Library System, our federal partners and the County Legislature for making this possible.”

Breaking Down the Digital Barriers

The “Wired for Opportunity” initiative is designed as a sweeping, county-wide effort to increase digital equity. It includes a combination of resources and services to reach those who are digitally underserved—from students needing help with schoolwork to seniors trying to access telehealth services.

At the heart of the program is the expansion of mobile Wi-Fi hotspots, known as MiFi units, that can be checked out from local libraries. Thanks to this new funding, 600 additional MiFi devices will be added, bringing the total available across the county to over 1,000 by the end of 2025. Each device can be borrowed by library cardholders for three weeks at a time, offering families without reliable internet a vital connection to the digital world.

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This isn’t just about giving people access—it’s about giving them the skills, too. Free computer literacy classes are already underway at senior centers, community hubs, and veterans’ facilities. The classes span from basic smartphone navigation to more advanced topics like Excel spreadsheets and web development. Families who complete four classes will be eligible to receive a free Chromebook or Google Pixel device through 2026.

Learning for Life: Free Access to Udemy

A major highlight of the initiative is free access to Udemy, a well-known online learning platform offering thousands of self-paced courses. Through their library cards, Monroe County residents can tap into educational resources covering everything from coding and business to health and creative skills. This benefit extends beyond library walls—cardholders can access Udemy remotely from any device.

The inclusion of Udemy brings an additional layer to the initiative: not only are residents getting connected, but they’re being given the tools to improve their personal and professional lives on their own schedules.

Solar-Powered Wi-Fi Tables: Connection Meets Innovation

One of the more innovative elements of the plan involves the installation of ten solar-powered Wi-Fi tables across Monroe County. These tables provide 24/7 internet access in outdoor public spaces and double as charging stations for phones and laptops. It’s a solution aimed at both connectivity and sustainability.

The tables are already installed at key locations including Corbett Park in Brockport, Canal Park in Greece, and the Gandhi Institute for Nonviolence in Rochester, among others. These spaces allow residents without home internet to have access in a safe, public setting.

Federal Support and Local Partnerships

The “Wired for Opportunity” initiative was made possible by leveraging ARPA funds with the support of Monroe County’s federal delegation. Lawmakers at the national level see this program as a model for how federal aid can be turned into real, impactful change on the ground.

“In today’s world, access to the internet is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “I’m grateful to my friend County Executive Bello and the Monroe County Library System for leveraging federal resources to expand high-speed internet access across our community. Every family deserves reliable connectivity—for educational opportunities, telehealth appointments, job opportunities, and staying connected with loved ones. I look forward to continuing our work together to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”

“I fought to pass the American Rescue Plan to deliver meaningful resources to communities across New York – and Monroe County is a shining example of that mission in action,” said U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer. “This $3 million investment will give residents access to vital tools like Wi-Fi hotspots, tech training, and solar-powered public workstations. Digital access is a lifeline – for jobs, education, and staying connected. I commend County Executive Bello and the Monroe County library System for turning federal dollars into real opportunities that empower residents and strengthen the community.”

“Digital equity remains a top priority of mine, because whether it’s how we conduct business, attend medical appointments, or stay in touch with loved ones, the internet is a necessity in our society, and yet far too many people remain disconnected. I’m grateful for Monroe County’s efforts to use federal funding to bridge the digital divide and help bring high-speed internet access to the Greater Rochester community. This partnership with the Monroe County Library System will help meet the needs of urban and rural residents alike, and I was proud to help secure these resources through the American Rescue Plan Act. I’ll keep fighting to ensure that all New Yorkers have the resources they need to stay connected,” said U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand.

Local Leaders Rally Behind the Mission

Local leaders across Monroe County are also praising the initiative for its commitment to inclusivity and practical community impact.

“Without a high-speed internet connection, residents may not have access to educational opportunities, jobs, telehealth or keep in touch with friends and family,” said Legislature President Yversha Román. “With the ‘Wired for Opportunity’ initiative, some barriers to digital access will be removed. That is why I’m so grateful for the work of County Executive Bello, my colleagues in the Monroe County Legislature, and the Monroe County Library System for allocating these federal funds and ensuring that we continue to expand internet access throughout our county.”

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“It’s important we continue to make investments in Monroe County, particularly in our rural communities and the City of Rochester. The Wired for Opportunity initiative helps bridge the digital divide existing for the elderly and in underserved areas, ensuring residents are connected with resources; such as, access to the internet with mobile mi-fi units available from Monroe County libraries, technology training for youth, mobile Wi-Fi hotspots across Monroe County, and Udemy, an on-line learning platform. This will be a game-changer in narrowing the digital divide in Monroe County,” said Legislator Ricky Frazier. “I’m grateful for County Executive Bello, the Monroe County Library System, and our partners in federal government for making this funding available to our County so we can continue to deliver vital resources to the community.”

“This investment is monumental for the westside and our rural communities,” said Legislator Jackie Smith. “Expanding digital access and offering free literacy training means more families, seniors, veterans, and students in towns like ours can stay connected, learn new skills, and seize opportunities. I’m grateful to our bipartisan partners who worked together to make sure no part of Monroe County is left behind in today’s digital world.”

Libraries as Lifelines in the Digital Age

The Monroe County Library System is central to this initiative’s success. Libraries have evolved into community tech centers, offering not just books but digital tools and support to residents who might not find those resources anywhere else.

“The Wired for Opportunity initiative is a game-changer for our community,” said Emily Clasper, Director of the Rochester Public Library and Monroe County Library System. “Access to digital tools and training is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Thanks to the County Executive’s leadership and this critical ARPA investment, our libraries can extend their reach, empower residents, and help close the digital divide for people of all ages and backgrounds across Monroe County.”

Mi-Fi hotspots were the most borrowed item from the library system in 2024, with over 5,200 check-outs—a clear signal of community demand and the need for continued investment.

Looking Ahead

With free computer classes already rolling out and devices on their way to more library branches, the impact of this initiative will stretch far into the future. The investment ensures that through 2026, residents will have access to the tools they need—not just to survive in a digital economy, but to thrive.

To find upcoming computer courses or explore the digital tools available, residents are encouraged to visit www.wiredforopportunity.org.

The message from Monroe County is clear: everyone, regardless of where they live or how much they earn, deserves a chance to connect, learn, and grow. And thanks to strategic investments and community collaboration, that chance is now a reality.