Niagara University is set to receive $9 million in federal funding to expand internet access across the City of Niagara Falls, U.S. Sens. Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, along with U.S. Rep. Tim Kennedy, announced Tuesday.

The lawmakers explained the funding will improve access to internet services by purchasing new library devices, improving public library computer infrastructure, expanding digital literacy training and more.

“Access to the internet is not luxury, but a necessity for modern life. Thanks to the Digital Equity Act I led to passage in the Senate, $9 million in federal funding is headed to Niagara University to ensure people across the City of Niagara have access to reliable internet access,” said Schumer. “These federal resources will help students better access devices such as laptops and tablets to do homework and also improve public library computers, boost digital literacy, expand online safety and cybersecurity training and more. I secured historic investments in bringing high-speed internet access to new communities like Niagara Falls, and now we are making sure that more New Yorkers can use it. This investment will connect communities to vital resources and ensure our communities can be fully connected to the 21st century. I’ll keep fighting to ensure every New Yorker has access to the fast, reliable internet access they need.”

According to Niagara University, the Niagara Falls Access & Education Project will allow students and residents to access devices such as laptops and tablets, provide training opportunities in basic digital literacy and accessing health care records online, install library kiosks that include broadband Wi-Fi access, develop a public computer center at Niagara University’s new Academic Innovation Hub, centralize online safety and cybersecurity education initiatives and more.

“Reliable internet access is essential to help millions of Americans succeed in their jobs, educations, and daily lives,” Gillibrand said. “Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are making transformative investments in broadband infrastructure that will enhance digital literacy, expand educational opportunities, and help close the digital divide in Niagara Falls. I am proud to have helped establish this bipartisan initiative, and I am committed to continuing to fight for policies that will help ensure equitable access to the resources needed for success in the 21st century.”

The award comes from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Digital Equity Competitive Grant Program created by the Digital Equity Act, which was included in the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law.