Cincinnati Launches Mostly Free Wi-Fi Network
The most distinguishing feature of the deployment is that it's free throughout most of its coverage.
The mesh network was built through a unique partnership of government, civic and business interests. The glue is a partnership called Lily Pad, which combines efforts by the city of Cincinnati, Time Warner Cable and the Lily Pad non-profit organization.
The program has already seen 28 free hotspots created, located throughout the region. Ryan Rybolt, a businessman who co-founded Lily Pad, said as of this week another 50 free hotspots are in the works. Most hotspots are underwritten by individuals and businesses. Visitors as well as Cincinnati -area citizens benefit from free Wi-Fi access.
One area covering 25 million square feet along the riverfront was established in about nine months, officials said.