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The city of Tucson, AZ is considering initiating a citywide wireless network, to encourage new uses of technology, and make sure that residents and businesses are able to access affordable, high-speed broadband. Tucson aims to attract a private sector company to build a WiFi network without direct city investment, or even indirect investment through an anchor tenancy. Nevertheless, the city does anticipate a role for itself in attracting a private provider and setting up the network.
Tucson hired a consultancy, Columbia Telecommunications Corporation (CTC), to conduct a feasibility study, and advise the city on whether and how it should issue an RFP for a network. The study is comprehensive, including detailed consideration of demographic and financial data, and may be a useful model for other communities studying the feasibility of local networks. Even if a community is not interested in a business model similar to Tucson’s, the feasibility study is worth reading because it covers issues common to municipal wireless deployments in such depth, including strategies for getting the right balance between risks and rewards for public and private partners.
Tucson has already begun deployment of a WiFi network to support public safety and other municipal applications, which will remain separate from a wireless network that would provide services to homes and businesses.
Learn More:
Tucson, Arizona Wi-Fi Feasibility Study Published. Esme Vos. Muniwireless. June 1, 2007. http://www.muniwireless.com/article/articleview/6074/1/23
Wireless Feasibility Study, Prepared for the City of Tucson, Arizona. Columbia Telecommunications Corporation (CTC). May 2007. www.tucsonaz.gov/it/docs/CMS1_028045.pdf
