Over the course of modern history, cities have been the world's preeminent sites and sources of technological innovation, and Philadelphia has been no exception. It was here that Benjamin Franklin's early experiments laid the groundwork for modern electrical theory, and that ENIAC, the world's first electronic digital computer, was designed and built. Today Philadelphia is at the forefront of a new technological renaissance: the nation's most ambitious wireless network is being built right here.

The benefits connectedness can bring to an individual are extensive. Easier access to information, greater mobility and faster, more convenient communication are among the most obvious. Being connected also means increased access to educational, employment and life opportunities. Beyond these individual benefits, the possibilities for new forms community building and enterprise are truly limitless and thrilling. As Philadelphia becomes a more connected city, we will begin to know the answer to the question that animates all of our efforts: What will life be like for all of us when all of us are connected? The day when affordable wireless Internet access is available throughout all of Philadelphia is approaching. Wireless Philadelphia is here to ensure that the most is made of the opportunity.

An Entire City Connected

Wireless Philadelphia works in partnership with established community-based organizations - our Wireless Internet Partners (WIPs) - to allocate hardware and discounted accounts to low-wealth households throughout the City. This allocation process, known as Digital Inclusion, is Wireless Philadelphia's principle mission. Wireless Philadelphia is also working with partners to support small business, enhance the visitor experience and streamline city services.

The citywide wireless network is currently about 75% built out, and EarthLink, the network's owner and operator, continues to deploy it. The full deployment will include subscriptions for wireless high-speed broadband internet service for homes and businesses, roaming capability for outdoor use throughout the city, and occasional use passes. Free access to the internet will be available in "free zones" covering a total of 10 square miles of public parks distributed throughout the City. Wireless Philadelphia plans to organize public events such as "Hot Spot Happy Hours" to publicize the service as they become available and as the weather warms.

An Online Community

Wireless Philadelphia maintains "Six Links" on the landing and welcome pages for access to the network. Through these, Wireless Philadelphia provides robust web portals where citizens can access high-quality content related to education, employment, health, recreation, nightlife and more, and where community groups can post and exchange information about neighborhood issues and events.

An Ambitious Vision

Wireless Philadelphia's vision is for Philadelphia - now among the least connected cities nationwide - to become the nation's most connected city. With the deployment of a citywide wireless network, and our focus on developing programs to connect all of our citizens to the Internet, we are leading the way toward universal Digital Inclusion through creative collaboration with small business, large corporations, community organizations and the public sector.

The Digital Inclusion Movement is taking hold. WP is currently working in partnership with 30 funding sources and more than 30 community partners. As a result of Philadelphia's bold leadership in creating this Initiative, low-wealth families across the city are gaining access to computers and broadband service, enabling them to take advantage of opportunities that before were closed to them. Philadelphia stands alone among major cities with our effort to extend affordable broadband access to all neighborhoods and in the development of a collaborative, community-based strategy to provide low-wealth families the tools they need to connect to the internet.