Lack of broadband and internet access hurts adults searching for jobs and presents big educational challenges to the area’s youth.

“There’s a technology access gap that continues to persist today in urban communities across America,” said Blair Taylor, president of the L.A. Urban League, which launched the Neighborhoods@Work program in 2006.

Partners in the program that is just south of Leimert Park include Crenshaw High School, the University of Southern California as well as the Los Angeles Police Department and state agencies.


Only 21 percent of the average homes have broadband service. The plan calls for the 50 workstations at the center and an additional 1,500 laptops that would be distributed to area residents.

The new services aimed at students at Crenshaw High would include basic and advanced computer training, job skills training, tutoring and GED preparation.