Lompoc Wireless Network

Lompoc, CA Wireless Network http://www.lompocnet.com/ Lompoc, CA (pop. 40,000) operates a municipal wireless network, which cost $3 million to build, on a public utility model. The service began to be offered in September 2006, but the network has not yet been fully deployed. The city provides two rate-plans. -Hotspot plan: $9.99 per month for unlimited, self-supported Internet access for one user at a time. -Family plan: $15.99 per month for unlimited Internet access for up to three users at a time, technical support via telephone or email, and rental of one city-owned wireless bridge. The city initially planned to offer a single $19.95 per month plan, but the existence of the Lompoc municipal network caused Comcast and Verizon to lower their prices, and then, the city to lower its prices – this illustrates the positive effects (municipal-stimulated) competition in the broadband market can have for consumers. The city has come under criticism because it has fewer subscribers than it initially anticipated: Jesdanun, Anick (2007). Cities Struggle with Wireless Internet. Associated Press, May 22, 2007. http://www.freepress.net/news/24389 But, the city is not concerned: Vos, Esme (2007). Lompoc Not A Failure, Says City Council Member. Muniwireless.com. June 8, 2007. http://www.muniwireless.com/article/articleview/6105/1/23/ And, criticism of the network is likely overblown: Vos, Esme (2007). AP Article Critical of Muni Wi-Fi Is Wrong. MuniWireless, May 22, 2007. http://www.freepress.net/news/23344