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Extend Outdoor WiFi ($50,000)

Committee: Community Resources

Cost: [$50,000]

Location: Multiple city locations

Short Description: 24-hour WiFi access added to public outdoor spaces near libraries and City-owned buildings.

Long Description:

This proposal aims to create 24-hour, free, public wireless local area networking (WLAN) internet access in the areas around Cambridge Public Libraries and other city owned buildings. Potential locations include the areas surrounding Central Square Library, O’Connell Library in East Cambridge, and the Lafayette Square fire station in Central Square. This access would be provided through properly spaced extenders, situated atop poles, that “spray” the network in a circular area.

The internet enables communication and access to information that is critical for finding jobs, benefitting from community resources, and pursuing an education. Internet access can be increased, and barriers alleviated by by providing free public Wi-Fi in outdoor spaces where residents already gather and spend time regularly. Visitors to the city would also be able to use the service.

wifi connection

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