The city of Alachua announced on Monday the launch of Access Alachua, a project to provide public internet at the city’s neighborhood parks.
Starting today, public internet is available at Criswell Park, Maude Lewis Park and Welch Park.
“Offering public internet free to the community in certain areas will support our citizens in many ways,” Alachua Mayor Gib Coerper said in a press release. “Community education, connection, engagement and outdoor activity are just a few of them.”
The city has installed signage to mark the areas of access and help community members access the service. Users will be required to read and acknowledge a disclaimer outlining permitted use and connection security.
The new service is sponsored by the city’s electric department and has plans for future growth.
“Our goal is to increase the number of public areas where our community can easily access the internet in the coming years,” Rodolfo Valladares, assistant city manager, said in the release. “Access Alachua is just one way the city is providing valuable resources for the Good Life Community.”
Is this really good stewardship of taxpayer monies or federal / state grants people? What is the priority to have internet in a d**n park??? There are plenty of things that you could use that money for to help people.
So if I need free internet, I can either go to the library and use a free computer and air conditioning, or I can go to a park and sit in the Florida sun, rain, heat and bugs while bringing my own laptop? Tough choice.
Besides, what percent of people who cannot afford internet at home can afford a laptop to connect at the park?
Yeah, see how that works out in setting up increase in drug deals, flash mobs, etc.
The bruthas will see their businesses expand. Technology is a wonderful thaannggg.