Eddie A. Perez
Mayor
---NEWS RELEASE---
(January 22, 2007)--- “Wireless Hartford” is connecting with customers--- both residents and visitors alike. On a regular basis, as of December, more than 2300 new users have signed up for this Wireless Internet access in homes and businesses in the two pilot neighborhoods: Blue Hills and Downtown. Also, more than 200 computers have been distributed from the Wireless Hartford Computer Depot, 121 Cornwall Street (the old Breakthrough and Mountain Laurel Schools).
Mayor Eddie A. Perez says, “We’re closing the digital divide, one family at a time. Through computer training and access to low-cost computers, we’re providing the opportunity for Hartford residents to surf the net to get more information about jobs, education, and healthcare.”
Residents continue to share their positive experiences with the Mayor’s Office. Pauline Daniels of the Blue Hills neighborhood says, “My grandchildren use it for school, so it is a great educational tool for homework.” Marie Lattiebudier of Blue Hills adds, “It’s great for the family and for corresponding with family outside of the state.” Cecil Pertillar of Blue Hills says “I’m enjoying learning something new.”
The pilot project is making progress every day. The pilot has helped the City identify areas where coverage needs to be improved and the City is planning to add more antennas, especially in the Blue Hills neighborhood, to increase and improve coverage and to make sure more people have the best possible experience with this Wireless Internet connection.
Experts advise “Wireless Hartford “ users to put their home computers in a room with windows. If users cannot connect, they can call the Wireless Support Center for information on the nearest access point. Users with laptops are encouraged to use businesses or areas where Wireless Hartford connections are advertised. In fact, start looking for the new “Wireless Hartford” sticker coming soon to your Blue Hills and Downtown neighborhood hotspot! For additional information, log on to http://www.hartford.gov/wifi/
Another bit of good news is that “Wireless Hartford” access will remain free through the month of March. The service time was extended to allow more Hartford families and businesses more time to enjoy this new and exciting initiative. There are also new hours at the Depot. Beginning January 23rd, the facility will be open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and on alternate Saturdays.
If you would like more information on how to sign up for “Wireless Hartford,” call 311 or 757-WIFI. You can also soon watch a special segment on Government Cable Access Channel 21 called “Focus on… Wireless Hartford.” Also, stay tuned for more information on a community meeting specially dedicated to this topic.