A new role for Akron in communications

ConnectAkron.org is a site you might want to keep an eye on.

After two years of planning, the City of Akron in partnership with OneCommunity and the Knight Center of Digital Excellence are beginning the build out of a wireless network that will serve between 80,000 and 90,000 Akron residents and over 30,000 downtown workers. The coverage area will include the University of Akron, museums, all three downtown hospitals and neighborhoods in North Hill, East Akron and Highland Square and may require the purchase of a wireless router/signal booster to achieve maximum signal strength.

Connect Akron links the wireless corridor to the rest of the digital world.

Wi-Fi has the ability to transform the everyday lives of businesses, hospitals, educators, visitors, students, and residents. Imagine transforming Akron through the endless possibilities of universal access.

Connect Akron focuses on closing digital divide and finding the opportunities and applications to shape Akron's future positioning Akron as a role model for communities around the world. The wireless corridor is an integral part in connecting Akron to the global economies of today as well as enhancing healthcare and education services and improving public safety. Although the Connect Akron wireless network is not up and running yet you can keep updated on the progress of the project by subscribing to the ConnectAkron blog.