Per the article you linked [1], the wifi is funded by a donation from the Fuhrman Family Foundation, not public funds. Additionally the quote from Bloomberg included substantially more than the Knicks and Nets: "Our new Harlem wireless network brings critical connectivity to residents and visitors, giving them 24/7 access to everything from education materials for kids, to information about Harlem’s rich history and attractions, to everyday needs like paying bills, checking library hours — or even just keeping tabs on the Knicks and Nets"

[1] http://www.nbcnews.com/technology/largest-free-public-wi-fi-...