Expect to see more free WiFi hotspots around Edmonton

EDMONTON – Edmonton City Council has approved a proposal that will see free WiFi access expanded to public areas across the city.

Shaw’s Go WiFi network will be providing the service, which people will be able to use when visiting popular Edmonton spots, as well as LRT stations, libraries, and other public facilities.

“Recent advances in digital communication are reshaping economies and societies of many cities around the world,” said Simon Farbrother, Edmonton City Manager. “Having readily available WiFi access in our city has become a necessity to be a fully digitally connected city.”

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He adds that the city’s relationship with Shaw “provides a cost-effective way to provide (Edmontonians) with free online access from all important public and gathering locations across the City.”

Shaw, the parent company of Global News, will be investing about $16 million into the five-year deal, while the city will put in just over half a million dollars.

The WiFi boxes will be installed on 890 street light poles over the next two years.

For more information about Shaw Go WiFi, visit www.shaw.ca/wifi.