Phoenix Arizona

Finalists selected in Wi-Fi Network bid

Today the City announced the two finalists in the request for proposals (RFP) process to select a citywide Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) Internet service provider.  The two finalists are:

–Earthlink Municipal Networks
–MobilePro Corporation

The goals of the City of Mesa Wi-Fi project include:

– Development of a Wi-Fi Internet network that is privately financed, built, owned and operated.

– Universal wireless broadband (Wi-Fi) Internet service that is available throughout the City for residents to subscribe at an affordable rate.

– Free wireless networking for City staff to use when working in the field.  This will support the work of police officers, building inspectors, utility locators, fire personnel, and many others when working away from office computers.

– Free Wi-Fi access to all City of Mesa Web sites and the Mesa Public Schools Web sites.

– A free hotzone for the planned Mesa Community College downtown campus.

– Some areas of free limited Wi-Fi access to the Internet in the community.

– Maintaining cutting edge technology to ensure a high degree of quality of service.

Negotiations will take place during the coming weeks.  An award recommendation will be made to City Manager Christopher Brady, with the final award to be considered and approved by the City Council.

The City issued an RFP in April 2006.  Five companies submitted proposals, including Able Information Technologies, Inc., Azulstar Networks, Earthlink Municipal Networks, MetroFi Inc., and MobilePro Corporation.