NC interactive map shows spots for free, low-cost internet access

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- It just got easier to find free and low-cost internet and mobile-service offerings near you.

The N.C. Department of Information Technology's Broadband Infrastructure Office has developed an interactive map to make the search easier.

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"North Carolina is fighting the COVID-19 pandemic with everything we've got," Tracy Doaks, NCDIT secretary and state chief information officer, said. "In these uncertain times, more and more of our residents are being asked to work and learn from home, making access to reliable and affordable high-speed internet more critical than ever."

The online map is updated daily with new offerings, which include free public Wi-Fi access points for remote learning and working.

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The initiative is part of the state's efforts to help students and schools bridge the digital divide during the state's response to COVID-19.

On March 30, Gov. Roy Cooper issued Executive Order 122 to help schools and local governments access state surplus property, including computers.

Executive Order 124, issued March 31, urges telecommunications, cable and internet service providers to give customers more time to pay outstanding bills and to waive fees and interest for late payments as a result of COVID-19.

It also urges providers to lift any data caps if they have not done so already.