Dramatically expanding public WiFi throughout Downtown Brooklyn and bridging the cost of the “last mile” needed to bring fiber connectivity to office buildings in the district were key priorities outlined in the Brooklyn Tech Triangle Strategic Plan – which got a major boost today from Mayor Bloomberg.
At a press conference at MetroTech Center, the Mayor announced the winners of the Wireless Corridor Challenge to provide free public WiFi to commercial corridors throughout the City.
“If New York City is going remain competitive in the global economy, we must find ways to support the entrepreneurs who are driving technological advances and creating jobs,” said Mayor Bloomberg. “With these new initiatives, we are making targeted investments to improve our city’s wireless infrastructure and expand Internet access. We’re also measuring how connected our city’s buildings are and sharing that information, so that entrepreneurs are empowered to make the best decisions about where to open a business.”
Downtown Brooklyn was among five winners chosen, and our grant will allow us to provide WiFi to the area bordered by Schermerhorn Street, Cadman Plaza West, Flatbush Avenue, and Tillary Street, along with select public spaces in the NYCHA Ingersoll and Whitman Houses. BAM was also a winner, meaning the WiFi network will extend through the Cultural District along Fulton Street to Classon Avenue.
“The City’s visionary commitment to expanding access to wireless and broadband in commercial districts not only helps to support the growth of the innovation economy in Downtown Brooklyn, but also ensure that the entire Brooklyn Tech Triangle is a dynamic, engaging place for residents, workers, and students alike,” said Downtown Brooklyn Partnership President Tucker Reed.
Over the next few weeks, Partnership staff will begin outreach to approximately 40 property owners in the neighborhood to use their buildings as wireless access points, which provides a host of benefits to building tenants – not to mention the entire neighborhood.
