The Wi-Fi mesh network will provide the approximately 26 square-mile Arlington County a broadband alternative for residents and visitors. 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.
"This service will create an amenity that will continue to distinguish Arlington as a truly world class community," said Jack Belcher, Arlington County's CIO.
As part of its commitment to open access, EarthLink will enable multiple, competing providers, such as PeoplePC and Vonage, to offer their services to consumers and businesses over its network.
