Failure to Connect

Over a year ago, the Cambridge City Council promised its residents the latest in technology convenience: city-wide wireless access. Exciting news for those of us who don’t have iPhones, and can’t give up on our aggressive Facebook stalking addiction.

The City of Cambridge planned on installing a free wireless network for students, residents, and tourists alike. That was announced way back in February of 2006. What the hell happened?

Very little. Almost no progress has been made in the Newtowne Court Housing Project and a small segment of Harvard Square in front of ABP. This area now offers free wireless service, according to Cambridge Chief Information Officer Mary P. Hart. “We’ve had mixed feedback,” said Hart. “Not everyone has been able to access the network.”

Nevertheless, Executive Director of the Harvard Square Business Association (HSBA) Denise A. Jillson is excited about the progress of the project. She said that within the next two to three weeks, more network nodes will be placed on the buildings of the HSBA’s member businesses. Residents should be able to watch a Red Sox live-feed from the comfort of JFK Park, the MAC Quad, the Pit, and the Mass. Ave. corridor.

Jillson has yet to receive complaints from Square business owners about the slow progress of the project. “The technology now compared to last year has changed. It’s more readily available, less cumbersome, and being patient will result in a more reliable, less expensive product.” So don’t throw out your ethernet cord just yet.