Arlington, Va., Selects Earthlink to Build Wireless Network

The Arlington, Va., County Board has approved a telecommunications license agreement between Arlington County and EarthLink to build, own and operate Arlington County, Virginia's Wi-Fi broadband network.

"We're excited to partner with EarthLink to bring a totally wireless capability to everyone who lives, works, and visits Arlington," commented Jack Belcher, Arlington County's Chief Information Officer. "This service will create an amenity that will continue to distinguish Arlington as a truly world class community."

The Wi-Fi mesh network will provide the approximately 26 square-mile Arlington County a broadband alternative for residents and visitors to the County. It will also enable County employees to work in the field without having to return to an office and a traditional landline to complete their tasks. EarthLink will also enable Internet access for to-be-determined nonprofit partners of Arlington County, as well as create wireless hotspots at a number of Arlington parks, community centers and libraries.

Arlington County has been a leading locality in the adoption of technology to benefit its citizens and government, having been named one of the Top 10 Digital Counties in the United States by the Center for Digital Government and National Association of Counties (NACo). To date, 'Arlington Wireless' has unwired its Courthouse Plaza; Central Library and other branches.