Solar benches installed around Wichita to expand internet access

WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — Twelve solar benches will be installed around Wichita in an initiative by the Wichita Public Library to expand public internet access.

“The solar benches are equipped with free public Wi-Fi and charging ports powered by solar
panels on top,” said the City of Wichita. “Residents who need to connect to a device can use these benches at their leisure.”

Three of those have already been installed at Evergreen Park , Atwater Neighborhood Resource Center , and the Colvin Neighborhood Resource Center .

In July, the Wichita Public Library, in partnership with the Wichita Public Library Foundation, received a $289,000 grant from the State of Kansas ADOPT Program to install nine more solar benches in low-income areas. This will leverage the Library’s extensive digital reach.

The City of Wichita says their effort is crucial in a city where thousands of households lack home internet.

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