Five people stand in a row at a Lift Zone ribbon cutting inside THEARC, with banners, a balloon, and a podium visible in the background. | DC Apartments by WC Smith

THEARC Cuts Ribbon on “Lift Zone”

THEARC cut the ribbon on a new Flagship Lift Zone, sponsored by Comcast, to advance digital skills and job training opportunities for residents in Southeast Washington, D.C.

The $750,000 Lift Zone includes a technology transformation of THEARC’s facilities, free WiFi on campus, and a grant to ComputerCore for hands-on digital skills training to enhance THEARC’s workforce development programs that empower thousands of residents annually.

“This investment is a game-changer for our community and marks the start of a bright new chapter for THEARC,” said Scott Kratz, President and CEO of Building Bridges Across the River, which operates THEARC. “By providing free, high-speed WiFi and supporting hands-on digital skills training, Comcast is accelerating opportunities for residents to learn, grow and succeed.”

WC Smith Chairman Chris Smith founded THEARC, which in 2025 celebrated its 20th anniversary. Building Bridges is WC Smith’s nonprofit partner; Smith serves as the chair of the organization’s board of directors.

Comcast previously committed $1 million to provide high-speed Internet access, free laptops, and digital skills programming for Building Bridges’ upcoming 11th Street Bridge Park.

The Lift Zone program launched in 2020 and now includes more than 1,250 locations nationwide.

Comcast and THEARC developed a customized plan to ensure the organization could expand its reach through the use of state-of-the-art technology. Comcast installed WiFi access points with increased reliability throughout THEARC’s campus. Other tech upgrades funded by Comcast include:

  • A fully renovated, state-of-the-art community room equipped with hybrid-learning technology for in-person and virtual instruction, new furnishings and a 98″ touch-screen display.
  • Customized privacy pods enabling residents to take virtual appointments and telemedicine visits powered by Xfinity WiFi.
  • A reimagined front lobby complete with new seating and furnishings.
  • An updated gallery with noise cancelling panels, a digital display and furniture investments that will allow the space to be used for hybrid learning or an exposition area for local artists.