Lt. Gov. Quinn awards $17,875 grant to create a Wi-Fi community Downtown Carbondale Goes Wireless!

CARBONDALE - Today, Lt. Governor Pat Quinn joined with local officials and business leaders to announce the development of a free wireless network in downtown Carbondale.

 

"Technology is crucial to growing commerce and tourism in downtown areas," Quinn said.  "We want to salute Carbondale Main Street for its commitment to bringing a wireless network to Carbondale.  This is a shining example of what grassroots organizing can accomplish."

 

Quinn's office will provide Carbondale Main Street with a  $17,875 grant for the wireless project.   The City of Carbondale's Information Systems Division will provide much of the ongoing maintenance and operation of the network.

 

The free wireless hotspot will stretch for 30 blocks, covering many downtown businesses as well as the hospital, library, City Hall and Civic Center.  The more than 5,500 people who go to downtown Carbondale for work and play each day will be able to log on while enjoying the park, visiting the Farmers Market or having lunch at a downtown restaurant.  And the hotspot will be a natural extension to the wireless access already available on the Southern Illinois University campus, allowing students to take their studies off campus and into downtown Carbondale.  

 

"This free wireless hotspot will increase tourism and economic development in Carbondale," Quinn said.  "Downtown Carbondale was already a hub for residents, students and visitors.  Now it will be a virtual hub for web visitors and local businesses alike."  

 

The new wireless network will enhance the experience of the tourists and students who come to downtown Carbondale to enjoy its charm.  And residents will benefit as the network increases economic opportunities, attracts new business and improves working business strategies.  The downtown network is the first phase of a plan to expand wireless services citywide.

 

Quinn was joined by Carbondale Mayor Brad Cole, Carbondale Main Street President Craig Reeves, Carbondale Main Street Executive Director Roxanne Conley, and members of the City Council.

 

Carbondale is a member of the Illinois Main Street program administered out of the Lt. Governor's office.  As part of the program, Carbondale Main Street has already improved the downtown area, redeveloping the Town Square, adding parking spots and flowerbeds, and helping businesses with building design and enhancement.  

 

The Illinois Main Street Program is based on a national model that offers communities help with issues such as downtown improvements, historic preservation and economic development.  Recently the Lt. Governor's Main Street program awarded grants to help member communities Quincy, Mt. Vernon and Belleville bring their own downtown districts online.  

 

As chairman of the Broadband Deployment Council, Quinn is actively involved in improving high-speed Internet access for all Illinois residents.  For more information about the Broadband Deployment Council, please visit www.IllinoisConnect.org.