City of Portland Selects MetroFi to Build Citywide Wi-Fi Network

Yesterday the City of Portland, Ore., announced it has selected MetroFi to deliver and operate a citywide Wi-Fi network that will provide free wireless Internet access and improved public services to Portland residents. MetroFi beat out two competitors -- EarthLink and VeriLAN.

The City will use wireless capability to make its own operations more efficient, including processing city parking meter transactions, connecting government employees stationed at field offices, and providing better information to emergency services. The system will be built at no cost to the city.

Residents and visitors of Portland will have wireless access to 1Mbps Wireless Internet. MetroFi's Internet access services will be supported by advertising from local and national advertisers. Customers who want an Internet access experience without ads can connect to the MetroFi network premium service for approximately $20.00 per month. Customers accessing the network will see a banner or text advertisement in the browser's frame. Portland-area businesses can leverage the local and regional nature of the network by providing links to their websites, coupons and announcements for users who are connected in close proximity to their establishment.

According to a city press release, an evaluation committee made up of a diverse group of area citizens, business representatives and technology experts made the final recommendation to the City of Portland. The three primary anchor tenants of the network, the City of Portland, Portland Public Schools and Tri-Met, also participated in the review of proposals. Companies were evaluated on their business approach, relevant experience, financial capability, diversity in hiring and sub-contracting, proposed cost, and proposed public benefit.
KW