During a recent meeting of the Fall River Park Board, discussions highlighted the growing importance of accessible internet services in the community. A representative from Ripple Fiber shared insights about their internet packages, emphasizing their commitment to affordability, especially for low-income families.

Ripple Fiber offers a base package of 500 megabits per second, priced at $45 a month for qualifying households, including those in public housing or receiving SNAP benefits. This initiative aims to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that families have access to reliable internet for educational and recreational needs. The representative noted that many households, particularly those with children engaged in online activities, may require higher bandwidth options, such as the 1 gigabit package, which is expected to meet demands for the next 5 to 10 years.

The company, founded in 2021 by Greg Wilson, has rapidly expanded its services across eight states, including Massachusetts. With ongoing projects in Holden and West Boylston, Ripple Fiber anticipates serving approximately 250,000 to 300,000 residents in the state within the next five years. This expansion reflects a broader commitment to enhancing digital infrastructure and connectivity in communities like Fall River.

As the city continues to explore ways to improve public services, the introduction of affordable internet options stands out as a significant step toward supporting residents' needs in an increasingly digital world. The Park Board's engagement with Ripple Fiber underscores the importance of collaboration between local government and private companies to foster community development and accessibility.