The existing system, which was developed as a cost-saving way to enhance service for City police and public safety officials, is currently in the testing phase. "The fact that this Wi-Fi network has already been implemented puts us ahead of the curve," said Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett. "I am confident we can leverage our existing system as we work to create a network that is accessible to the public."
The City of Oklahoma City says it is open to partnering with one or more organizations to expand the current Wi-Fi network to the public, after new technology is available that will ensure the system's security and integrity given the additional requirements public access brings. For now, the City has indicated there is a possibility it could share the locations where the current Wi-Fi system hardware is installed (poles, right-of-way, etc.).
The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber, which released a Request for Information (RFI) on Wednesday regarding the installation, maintenance and operation of a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) in targeted sections of the city, says it sees City's existing Wi-Fi system as a definite plus, and hopes that it will spark the interest of internet service providers.
"We wish to partner with rather than compete," said Roy Williams, CEO and President of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber. "The Chamber believes that effective management of a publicly accessed Wi-Fi system will be best accomplished by collaboration between the Chamber, the City of Oklahoma City and private providers. Our ultimate goal is to create one of the most effective, widespread wireless Internet access networks in the nation."
The potential Wi-Fi District, or "Hot Zone," could include Oklahoma City's Central Business District and priority visitor areas such as Bricktown, Deep Deuce, the Oklahoma! River, Stockyards City and State Fair Park.
"Developing a high quality public-access Wi-Fi network in Oklahoma City is critical to making us a more attractive city," said Greater Oklahoma City Chamber Chairman Fred Hall, who in 2004 announced that the Chamber would work to create a Wi-Fi enabled area in the city. "Wi-Fi could benefit economic development, tourism, even job growth."
"Business and economic development leaders in Oklahoma City see the importance of utilizing the latest technology to ensure we remain competitive," said Williams. "If we want to continue to attract companies like Dell, Inc., to Oklahoma City, and retain the caliber of knowledge-based workers to fill those jobs, we need to be cutting-edge."
Complete RFI
Map of the potential Wi-Fi District
