Chicago releasing draft wireless broadband RFP
Using technology to create a buzz, the City of Chicago
will be releasing a draft wireless broadband request for proposal (RFP) and seek
comments from the public before it releases a final RFP to expand broadband
delivery throughout Chicago's
neighborhoods.
Chicago's commitment to expanding broadband delivery is a realization
that high-speed digital infrastructure is now a must-have for businesses, and
many residents as well. Cities from Philadelphia to San Francisco
to neighboring Milwaukee are moving forward with public wireless
networks. How will Chicago's inititative happen? Will it include high
speed services in addition to public access Wi Fi? Let your thoughts be
known by submitting comments once the draft is made available.
The effort comes two years after MPC issued "From Broad
Shoulders to Broadband," illustrating the need for high-speed infrastructure
in Chicago's neighborhoods. The study demonstrated many neighborhoods are lacking in
infrastructure, particularly at higher speeds (3 megabits and more). With
technology ever-changing, wireless networks can play an important part in
serving this need, especially if they are linked with a fiber backbone.
Below is a copy of the City of Chicago Wireless Network RFP
notification. This site will be updated with a link to the draft RFP once
it is made available.
The City of Chicago has
developed an initiative
to
make affordable broadband
services available throughout the city. The city intends to issue
an RFP in late Spring 2006, to solicit proposals from private sector companies for the
financing, installation and management of a Wireless Broadband Network for the
City of Chicago . Please note that
Chicago
is not seeking to
create
a municipally owned utility
-- it will not own the network, nor will it maintain, operate, upgrade, or
support the customers who use it. Prior to final issuance of the RFP,
in early May 2006, the city will post a draft of the RFP at
www.cityofchicago.org/wirelessrfp
for the purpose of allowing interested parties to comment or suggest
improvements to the RFP.
During the comment
period, the city may incorporate suggested revisions that have been determined
to add value to the RFP. A written response will not be provided to each
respondent; however communications may be initiated by the city to acquire
clarification to a response submission.
MPC encourages you to provide your
feedback. Please submit responses to
wirelessrfp@cityofchicago.org.