Low-to-moderate income residents of all 18 Peoria County Board districts will have access to a low-to-no cost Internet program.
The county's new Digital Equity Pilot Program is funded through a $125,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.
Andre Allen is the county's chief diversity, equity, and inclusion officer.
"I really want people to see that addressing the issue of digital equity is a kitchen table issue that many in our county face," he said. "Whether you live in the rural parts of Peoria County or the urban parts, this is a challenge we all have."
Allen said four internet service providers throughout the county are participating. Awards will be distributed to households via a lottery system. The pilot program goes for a year, but Allen is hopeful more funding can be obtained.
"wW're addressing the affordability aspect with this pilot, with the goal of hopefully being able to address some of those infrastructure issues down the line if we're able to secure additional funding," he said.
He said he believes 200 to 250 households will be served with this pilot. Applications will open in October.
Allen said this is state money coming back home to benefit local people.
"I want them to know that their tax dollars are working for them. I want them to know that there are individuals within their government who understand the needs that they have, and we're working very hard to ensure that those are met," Allen said.
