San Francisco completed the first phase of its Chinatown Wi-Fi project, which provides free public internet service to the neighborhood.
“Access to opportunity online must be available to everyone in a city that leads the globe in technology and innovation,” said Mayor Daniel Lurie in a statement. “I am proud to celebrate the completion of the first phase of free public Wi-Fi in Chinatown.”
Phase one delivers free, high-speed internet access along Grant Avenue from Bush Street to Broadway, improving connectivity for residents, small businesses, and visitors in one of San Francisco’s densest neighborhoods. The expansion of Wi-Fi in Chinatown also brings free high-speed internet service directly to 234 families living at the Ping Yuen affordable housing buildings.
This also brings free high-speed internet service directly to 234 families living in the Ping Yuen affordable housing buildings, continuing the expansion of the city’s Fiber to Housing program at Ping Yuen and extending free high-speed internet access to residents of the Ping Yuen Central, West, and East buildings.
District 3 Supervisor Danny Sauter framed the project as a digital equity investment tied to daily services and economic activity in the neighborhood.
“This milestone reflects strong partnerships and a shared commitment to digital equity,” Sauter said. “Access to reliable internet is an essential infrastructure.”
City Administrator Carmen Chu said the Grant Avenue deployment is intended to support both neighborhood residents and the area’s business corridor.
“Grant Avenue is a key destination for visitors to Chinatown, and I am thrilled to know that it will be supported by state-of-the-art technology that helps our local businesses and communities continue to prosper,” Chu said.
The Chinatown expansion is being carried out in two phases. The city said phase two is expected by the end of 2026 and will extend Wi-Fi coverage along Stockton Street between Bush Street and Broadway, as well as into additional alleyways, side streets, and public spaces.
Officials also said existing coverage at Portsmouth Square will be upgraded after the park’s renovation work is complete.
