SmartMark Wraps Up Phase I of its Connected Communities Program Focused on Wi-Fi Access and Education

SmartMark led the pilot, called Connecting MHA, together with partners Murfreesboro Housing Authority (MHA), United Communications, and Middle Tennessee Electric.

July 1, 2024 - SmartMark Communication's Connected Communities grant from the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) that provides free internet access and energy education to low-income residents in Murfreesboro, Tennessee has come to a close after two years running.

The pilot project offered residents moving into MHA's new development with free internet access for three years. Internet is critical in today's world, yet the cost can often be burdensome for low-income residents.

The goal of the pilot was to provide this vital service free of charge to residents and study any behavioral changes around energy management in the homes when coupled with energy education.

United Communications and the Murfreesboro Housing Authority installed fiber internet in the new housing developments, and SmartMark led a digital literacy campaign to accompany the free internet. Each quarter, residents received an email with educational material, from energy-saving tips to an myMTE video tutorial.

Learn more about the Connected Communities program here.