March 13, 2020
Thom Carroll/for PhillyVoice
Comcast has advised employees at its Center City headquarters to work remotely if possible through April 12 in response to the coronavirus outbreak. The company has also boosted internet speeds and cut prices for qualified low-income customers.
Philadelphia-based internet and cable giant Comcast has modestly optimized broadband speeds and advised employees at its Center City headquarters to work from home as a precaution for the coronavirus, if possible.
The company joined rivals AT&T and Verizon this week in improving and discounting internet service, particularly for lower-income customers.
Comcast's "Internet Essentials" program will see speeds boosted to 25/3 megabits per second, from 15/2 Mbps., the company said.
"In this way, we will ensure that Internet Essentials customers will be able to use their Internet service for all their increased needs as a result of this health crisis," Comcast said in a statement.
As of Monday, Comcast has been offering 60 days of free internet to qualified low-income households. The "Internet Essentials" program is usually $9.95 per month.
Later in the week, the company sent a memo to all Philadelphia employees urging those at its headquarters, located at 1701 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, to work from home.
Comcast is now encouraging all HQ employees in the Philly area to work remotely through April 12, according to email sent to workers. pic.twitter.com/q3HiVjC86e
— Christian Hetrick (@_Hetrick) March 13, 2020
"We are now encouraging HQ employees in the Philadelphia metro area to begin working remotely through April 12," the company said.
While the offices will remain open, the company strongly discourages external visitors, including employees from other office sites.
