No citywide wireless network plans on the horizon for NYC
Although the citywide wireless network has touched just about every corner of the country, it seems that it may never find its mark in The Big Apple.
I’ve written many times in the past that New York City was the “big enchalida” when it comes to citywide wireless. If the city had ever announced plans to develop and deploy a muni WiFi network, ISPs of all shapes and sizes would be tripping over themselves to respond to the mother of all RFPs.
However, it doesn’t look like there are plans coming forth to build a network. About a year ago, there was some discussion in a city council committee, but nothing seems to have emerged since then. At this point, it appears that residents are content to stay with whatever internet connection they may already have. In addition, city officials may feel that a wireless network will not provide that much of an economic or social benefit to an already-existing major hub of business and culture.
So, for at least the forseeable future, it looks like the muni WiFi train will pass by New York City. However, as we all know, things can change in an instant, and if someone can produce a plan that can outline the benefits of a network to a city as large as this one, opinions can certainly shift very quickly.
July 9th, 2007 at 11:53 pm
I assume most people have good and cheap broadband at home (or office) so there is no special need for wireless.
And now that most of newer cell phones offer web browsing you can have wireless web anywhere with you.
Iphone anyone?