![thomas-jensen-h3vt1kp0fxa-unsplash.jpg](/sites/g/files/omnuum10826/files/styles/hwp_21_9__1920x825/public/datasmart/files/thomas-jensen-h3vt1kp0fxa-unsplash.jpg?itok=R1O3KS14) # Equity Connected: How San Jose is Expanding Broadband Access Episode Seven June 09, 2021 [ Betsy Gardner ](/betsy-gardner) - June 9, 2021 - [Equity](/equity) In this episode, Professor Steve Goldsmith interviews Kip Harkness, the deputy city manager for San Jose, California. Harkness is in charge of the city’s IT and innovation portfolios; despite being in the middle of Silicon Valley, many low-income residents don’t have access to broadband internet. Thanks to efficient digital permits, a partnership with national telecommunications providers, and a dedicated Digital Inclusion Fund, San Jose is connecting residents across the city and providing online access across households. Listen below, or wherever you get your podcasts, to hear Professor Goldsmith and Kip Harkness discuss the importance of equity, connectivity, and community engagement. [Transcript available here](https://ashcast.simplecast.com/episodes/data-smart-city-pod-equity-connected-how-san-jose-is-expanding-broadband-access/transcript). ## Want to learn more? Check out this [article about Kip Harkness and his plans for equitable connectivity](https://datasmart.ash.harvard.edu/news/article/san-jose-equity-and-connectivity-expand-through-partnerships) to learn more. Embed ## About the Author ### Betsy Gardner ![Headshot of Betsy Gardner](/sites/g/files/omnuum10826/files/styles/hwp_1_1__100x100_scale/public/2025-05/Betsy%20Headshot%20resize.jpg?itok=k2OsSp1g) Betsy Gardner is the editor of Data-Smart City Solutions and the producer of the Data-Smart City Pod. Prior to this, Betsy worked in a variety of roles in higher education, focusing on deconstructing racial and gender inequality through research, writing, and facilitation. She also researched government spending and transparency at the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy. Betsy holds a master’s degree in Urban and Regional Policy from Northeastern University, a bachelor’s degree in Art History from Boston University, and a graduate certificate in Digital Storytelling from the Harvard Extension School. See also:- [ Education ](/topics/education) - [ Equity ](/topics/equity) - [ Infrastructure ](/topics/infrastructure) - [ Smart Grid & Utilities ](/topics/smart-grid-utilities) Share on:- [ Facebook ](#) - [ Twitter ](#) - [ Linkedin ](#)