Save Philly WiFi: Call Mayor Nutter Wednesday

Earthlink plans to begin dismantling the $17 million network June 12, after failing to convince either the city or a non-profit to assume ownership. <p>

Despite the challenges facing the broadband network, community activists believe it remains a critical asset for helping close the digital divide in Philadelphia-where over half of all households lack a high-speed Internet connection. "In 2005 the city made a promise to provide every Philadelphian, regardless of income, with reliable access to the Internet," says Shivaani Selvaraj of the Media Mobilizing Project. "Mayor Nutter is obligated to ensure the city makes good on that promise." <p>

The need for digital inclusion is growing exponentially. Today, it is nearly impossible to register for a university course or even check a train schedule without Internet access. Local residents routinely wait two hours at the Free Library for a 30-minute session on the Web. Even as Mayor Nutter is prepared to walk away from the WiFi network, his administration committed to making government services available on-line. The Philadelphia Police Department already offers downloadable reports, and the Department of Licenses & Inspections website encourages users to download building permit applications. Residents can even notify the Streets Department about potholes via a hyperlink on that agency's website. <p>

"But without access to the Internet, Philadelphians are blocked from taking advantage of any of these services," says Gwen Shaffer, a doctoral student whose research focuses on broadband policy. "The Nutter administration says it values public participation in the political process. But residents need affordable Internet access in order to be engaged in civic life." With Earthlink poised to begin taking down the Wireless Philadelphia network June 12, it is critical that local residents immediately pressure the city step in. Concerned residents should contact Mayor Nutter's office at (215) 686-3000 or (215) 686-2250 on Wednesday, May 21st. Philadelphians will have another opportunity to contribute to the debate about local digital inclusion efforts during a June 3 public forum. The Media Mobilizing Project and Temple University's School of Communication and Theater are co-hosting that event.

Comments

Right Energy, Wrong Technology

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 05/22/2008 - 12:49pm

Digital inclusion is the right energy, however based on existing performance of this network and others around the country, it seems the city is in a better position to serve as it's own ISP or subsidize subscriptions to existing ISPs for those who cannot afford it. Serving the same frustrating technology to new internet users will not ensure a good experience for the populations in Philly still not connected.

Not needed

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 07/22/2008 - 9:49pm

You people are just a bunch of preppies that want the convenience of sitting in your latte shops and web caming your friends at the expence of the taxpayers.
The poor people have AOL for $9.95 and it is sufficient.
You ,however want it for your Blackberrys,Ipods and whatever other fancy electronic toys you have.
This city wastes enough of taxpayers money.IE:GPS parking meters for the rich,the water works for private parties.I don't know about you but I certainly cannot afford to eat there!
How about millions given to Comcast and yet they want an arm and a leg for Internet? Where is their civic responsibility for lowering costs?
Instead of burdening the hard working taxpayer why doesn't your group go after the big CORPORATIONS instead???
Over taxed and utilities burdened.

Recent Similar Articles

Comments

Right Energy, Wrong Technology

Not needed

Post new comment