Smart Charlotte

What is Smart Charlotte?

We’re building a Smart Charlotte! Working with community partners, we’re improving city services, infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for our residents. These enhancements will enable innovation, digital access and inclusion, connectivity, and economic mobility in our community.  Smart Charlotte…empowered by technology.

Access Charlotte Public Wi-Fi

The digital divide in the City of Charlotte has intensified, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, the increasing need for remote work and virtual learning has grown significantly.

The city recognizes this urgency and is accelerating its commitment for public Wi-Fi on transit, and in neighborhoods and public spaces throughout Charlotte. In addition to meeting an immediate need for students and families, public Wi-Fi will boost economic mobility for Charlotte residents.

The initiative also will support economic development efforts in the Corridors of Opportunity.

In addition to public Wi-Fi, the City is investing in partnerships that will increase digital access and digital literacy throughout Charlotte:

• Learning Labs – this partnership with United Way will provide computers and technology equipment to community centers and remote learning sites throughout Charlotte, with an emphasis on the Corridors of Opportunity and other areas of need.

• Digital Navigators – this partnership with Digital Charlotte will provide one-to-one dedicated technical support via phone and/or web-conferencing service to help residents learn basic digital skills, find affordable computing devices, and get connected to affordable home internet.