PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 10, 2026
Baltimore Launches One of the Largest Public-Housing High-Speed Internet Initiatives in the Country
Housing Authority of Baltimore City, Baltimore City Office of Information Technology & Port Networks partnership will deliver broadband to more than 4,000 units across eight public housing communities
BALTIMORE – The Housing Authority of Baltimore City (HABC), Baltimore City Office of Information Technology (BCIT) and Port Networks today announced a joint initiative that will provide broadband to more than 4,000 public housing units across eight HABC properties.
The almost $22 million investment by HABC and its partner BCIT city will provide every resident with access to affordable, reliable fiber-optic internet. Port Networks, a local broadband provider, was selected as the Internet Service Provider and will install a fiber connection into every unit. Port Networks will offer gigabit broadband service to 100% of willing households at an end-user price of $20 per month.
“This project will provide top-tier internet service to neighborhoods that are underserved and have long lacked reliable, high-quality connectivity,” said Janet Abrahams, HABC’s President and CEO. “Having broadband at home is now essential for education, employment, healthcare and economic mobility.”
The project is part of Baltimore City’s Digital Equity and Broadband Strategy, which prioritizes affordable, reliable connectivity for underserved residents. It will be one of the largest public-housing fiber initiatives in the country once installed at all communities, including Gilmor, McCulloh, Douglass, Brooklyn, Latrobe, Cherry Hill, Mount Winans, and Westport.
“Baltimore is investing in a digital foundation that strengthens neighborhoods for decades to come,” said Leyla Layman, BCIT’s Interim CIO & CDO. “We’ve laid the groundwork early. With much of the core infrastructure already constructed, HABC residents will receive broadband service faster than most communities across the country.”
The network will be able to support 1 Gbps and up to 10 Gbps with future upgrades. There will be no contracts, data caps, throttling or hidden charges. All units will have a fiber connection installed, allowing residents to choose whether or not to use the service.
“We are proud to partner with HABC and BCIT on this important initiative,” said Hugh Bethell, General Manager, Port Networks. “We built our network to do one thing: move data to and from our customers as quickly and reliably as possible. We pride ourselves on being a local high-speed internet provider that offers low-cost service without an application process or qualification requirements.”
Bethell continued, “Our digital equity support is aligned with Baltimore City’s long-term strategy, including digital skills training and multilingual support. This initiative positions Baltimore as a national leader in municipally supported fiber deployment.”
Installation work will be scheduled building-by-building and residents will receive advance notice and support. A typical construction can take at least 90 days per property. Port Networks will conduct active enrollment, helping residents sign up and get devices online.
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About the Housing Authority of Baltimore City (HABC)
The Housing Authority of Baltimore City provides quality affordable housing and supportive services to more than 20,000 families across Baltimore. Through initiatives that promote education, employment, and economic empowerment, HABC is building stronger, self-sufficient communities and creating opportunities for residents to thrive. Habc.org
About Port Networks
Port Networks is a customer-first Internet service provider dedicated to delivering high-performance, reliable connectivity without junk fees, data caps, or long-term contracts. Built on a true data network using the best fiber, microwave, and Wi-Fi technologies, Port Networks offers dependable service and local support that customers love. For more information, visit portnetworks.net.
