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Halifax, Dartmouth start connection to free public Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi has begun to connect in Halifax and Dartmouth. John Moore / Getty Images

Those visiting Halifax or Dartmouth this summer are about to find themselves losing a bit less data on their wireless devices as free Wi-Fi is hooked up throughout the municipality, with the Grand Parade and the Dartmouth waterfront as the first connections.

On Wednesday, the free Wi-Fi was up and running in both locations and Nick Ritcey, a spokesperson for the municipality, said the system could see some slowdown as it is new, but ask people to be patient.

He said that they will be collecting data from users to find out how best to improve the system as issues are worked out.

READ MORE: Free public Wi-Fi on its way for downtown Halifax, Dartmouth

A coverage map for free Wi-Fi at Halifax\’s Grand Parade. Halifax Regional Municipality

Since the Wi-Fi started up, however, Ritcey said it “feels great” for the municipality to be connected.

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“It’s been in the works for a little while and to get these two locations ready is really exciting.”

A contract was awarded to Bell Aliant in February to make wireless Internet available using its own fibre network in several locations. Council voted in favour of the Wi-Fi, but only by a 9-8 vote.

READ MORE: Will Halifax and Dartmouth soon see free public Wi-Fi downtown?

Ritcey said when people are in Wi-Fi-enabled areas they can log into HFX Public Wi-Fi and then open their browser to agree to the terms and conditions. He said no username or password needs to be created to use the service.

A coverage map for free Wi-Fi coverage at the Dartmouth waterfront. Halifax Regional Municipality

Work is already underway to connect the Halifax waterfront by mid-July, while the Alderney Gate Library, Halifax Central Library including the Plaza, and the Halifax North Memorial Public Library are expected to come shortly after the waterfront.

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When logged on, after accepting the terms and conditions, the browser will redirect to the Discover Halifax page which will provide updates on what can be done in the municipality.

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