(AGENPARL) – Mon 06 October 2025 City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:
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News Release
October 6, 2025
City of Toronto champions digital inclusion with public Wi-Fi across more than 250 locations
Today, Deputy Mayor Ausma Malik (Spadina-Fort York) and City of Toronto staff marked Digital Inclusion Week alongside the Toronto Public Library (TPL) by celebrating a major milestone in the City’s work to close the digital divide: free, City-provided public Wi-Fi available in more than 250 locations across Toronto.
89 per cent of these sites are located in Toronto’s Neighbourhood Improvement Areas – communities identified as facing economic and social challenges – and Emerging Neighbourhoods which are rapidly growing areas with increasing needs for infrastructure and services.
Digital Inclusion Week, taking place until Saturday, October 11, highlights the growing importance of equitable digital access, literacy and inclusion in a world where access to technology shapes how residents and visitors live, work, learn and connect.
ConnectTO
Since its launch in 2021, ConnectTO has helped bridge the digital divide by delivering free public Wi-Fi to a wide range of locations including community recreation centres, arenas, civic buildings and public squares.
New signage will make it easier for residents and visitors to identify Wi-Fi-enabled public spaces throughout the city.
Equity and affordability
Free public Wi-Fi plays a key role in improving affordability and inclusion, especially for residents who may not have reliable internet access at home. ConnectTO installations support a wide range of users – including students completing schoolwork, job seekers searching for employment, seniors staying socially connected, newcomers accessing essential services and residents engaging with digital City services.
Toronto Public Library programs
As part of this citywide effort, TPL is showcasing the depth of digital tools and educational resources available to residents at library branches across Toronto. Through TPL’s programming – including digital literacy support and training in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence – residents of all ages can build valuable skills and learn how to navigate the digital world safely and successfully.
The City continues to invest in public education, including digital literacy training, to support the unique needs of Toronto’s diverse communities and learners.
More information about ConnectTO and public Wi-Fi locations is available on the City’s website: http://www.toronto.ca/ConnectTO.
Quote:
“Providing free public Wi-Fi is a meaningful step toward a more inclusive and connected Toronto. Through ConnectTO, we’re increasing access for residents and visitors, and supporting digital literacy and public education. This work reflects our commitment to affordability, accessibility, and digital equity for all.”
– Deputy Mayor Ausma Malik (Spadina-Fort York)