Free Wi-Fi service is now available to anyone in Downtown Gainesville, Roosevelt Square and the Midtown Greenway.
The announcement was made Friday via press release.
The “Gainesville City Wifi” system operates like standard free Wi-Fi found in retailers and eateries. After accepting the service agreement in a device’s web browser, the user will be redirected to www.downtowngainesville.com, a section of the city website that features information about events and attractions downtown. Users will then be able to access the service for up to three hours per session.
“The network is simple and user friendly. We designed this service to support the visitors to our city and give them a reliable internet option while spending time here. Approximately 1,500 people can access the system in each of the three locations. We are very excited about this opportunity,” City IT Manager Jonathan Reich said.
The city was able to design and install the public wireless internet system in part due to a grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission. The project idea came from public input during the 2015 Downtown Master Plan.
The city also released a new smartphone app, "distrix." The free app relays information about Main Street communities and is location-based, allowing it to alert users of offers or promotions nearby at downtown businesses. Main Street Gainesville offers the app through the National Main Street Center.
The app is available in the iTunes and Google Play stores.
