January 19, 2013

Mayor Emanuel and Comcast Receive 2013 Excellence in Public/Private Partnership Award from the United States Conference of Mayors

Mayor's Press Office    312.744.3334

Today, Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Comcast were awarded the 2013 Excellence in Public/Private Partnership Award at the U.S. Conference of Mayors, for the success of the Internet Essentials program in Chicago, which has led the nation in closing the digital divide.

“I am honored to receive this award on behalf of the City of Chicago,” said Mayor Emanuel. “The City’s partnership with Comcast underscores our commitment to economic growth and advancing Chicago as a leader in technology. I remain focused on closing the digital divide and improving the quality of live for all Chicagoans.”

On August 15, 2012, Mayor Emanuel and Comcast launched the second year of Internet Essentials program. This comprehensive broadband adoption is designed to increase Internet availability among low-income Americans.

In the first year of the Internet Essentials program, nearly 100,000 families signed on to participate, including 7,000 families in the Chicago area. Comcast partnered with many city agencies and community based organizations in collaboration with Mayor Emanuel including Chicago Public Schools, Chicago Public Library, Chicago Park District, Chicago Faith and Community Based Organizations and Smart Chicago Collaborative.

The United States Conference of Mayors established the Excellence in Public/Private Awards to recognize the partnerships between the member companies of the Mayors Business Council with cities across America. The benefits of their exciting achievements range from economic development to environmental upgrades within schools to improving workforce education.

# # #