Brief: Windy City eyes Wi-Fi

Chicago plans to issue an RFP for public wireless access this spring

By Matt Hamblen

February 17, 2006 12:00 PM ET

Computerworld - Wi-Fi could hit the airwaves in Chicago in the next two years, following the city's recent decision to issue a request for proposals this spring for public wireless access.
The proposed Wi-Fi system would put Chicago on a list of major U.S. cities moving ahead with wireless LAN systems available to the public, including residents and businesses, at low cost. Philadelphia last month finalized a 10-year contract with EarthLink Inc., while Miami and Minneapolis are moving close to contract signings. Meanwhile, Google is proposing free Wi-Fi system in San Francisco, with revenues there bring supported by advertising.
Chicago's outgoing CIO, Chris O'Brien, presented a plan to the Chicago City Council on Feb. 7 to seek an RFP from dozens of Wi-Fi equipment suppliers and operators to handle installation and network maintenance, a city spokeswoman said today. She said a choice might be made in the fall, with perhaps a year needed for construction.
O'Brien's replacement, Hardik Bhatt, is slated to take over as CIO in about two weeks and be will instrumental in the Wi-Fi plan, she said.
In an article posted on the city's Web site, O'Brien said the contract for the job would likely go to a consortium of equipment makes and service providers. The Wi-Fi service will be offered for free to taxpayers and at low cost to other users, he said.

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