In 2003, members of the Louisville Metro Council encouraged technology leaders in this region to explore the availability of wireless hotspots and wireless access in our community. The result was the formation of the Metro Louisville Wireless Initiative, a public/private endeavor managed by the Technology Network of Greater Louisville Inc. (TeN). The group’s mission was to develop and implement a plan to increase the number of hotspots in the city and to raise awareness of their existence.
After studying other efforts around the country, business partners involved in this Initiative began by have donating and installing wireless hotspots in several outdoor, public locations in downtown Louisville: Theater Square, Jefferson Square, and 4th St. Live! This work encouraged other entities such as the Louisville Free Public Library system and the Waterfront Development Corporation to invest in wireless infrastructure as well. At the same time, local businesses started offering wireless services to their customers – coffee shops and bookstores, hotels and car dealerships, hospitals and restaurants - the list was growing.
Today, Louisville is full of wireless hotspots - anywhere where people linger, you will find a hotspot. The focus of the Metro Louisville Wireless Initiative now is developing a comprehensive online directory of all of these hotspot locations. We are going door to door to sign-up businesses for this directory. This will make it easy for residents and visitors to find wireless internet services.
Why do all this? It is an investment in our community. Access to technology improves the quality of life of all residents. And, it makes good business sense. It keeps Louisville competitive with cities around the country. Thanks for supporting the wireless movement!
