The City's primary goal for this project is to enhance public safety by dramatically increasing the information available to mobile police officers and firefighters. Clearwire service will accommodate the City's public safety requirements, including real-time video streaming and photo transfer for police and fire vehicles traveling at up to 70 miles per hour. Service will not only be available for Police, Fire, and emergency medical service providers; but also to municipal field workers, and to the City’s businesses, citizens, and visitors. Additional anticipated benefits of the high speed broadband WiMAX network include the expectation that a citywide network will:

• Improve service delivery to residents and reduce the cost of government
• Provide an economic development tool to attract and retain business
• Reduce the digital divide with affordable high-speed broadband service
• Facilitate wireless technology use for citizens and visitors
• Create a seamless wireless infrastructure to attract and retain young professionals

This will all be accomplished without burden on our taxpayers.

8/18/10  How Grand Rapids city workers plan to harness Clearwire's new 4G wireless Internet service

 8/3/10 Mayor's Wireless Broadband Advisory Commitee and News Conference packet (PDF)

Check out Clear.com to find information on pricing, coverage, and a wide variety of devices to connect to Clearwire's 4G network from home or on the go. You can visit the Clear kiosk at  Woodland Mall or call them  at 616-608-3081 ​   ​       Wireless Grand Rapids Project Background Bid Award News Release (PDF) City Commission Agenda Item (PDF) glimaWest Survey Results (PDF) Discounted Service to Low-Income Residents CLEAR discounted service is available to low-income residents who qualify at a cost of $9.95 per month for up to 5% of the total households in Grand Rapids. The Community Media Center (CMC) began accepting applications for discounted CLEAR service in October 2010.  Income guidelines are similar to those used for other state or federally funded programs. If  a household qualifies for a federal or state low income service program, they will likely qualify for Clear discounted service. Discount Service FAQs & Application for Low Income Residents of Grand Rapids Suggest Locations for Grand Rapids Wi-Fi Hot Spots While CleaWiMAX service will cover the entire region so that you won't have to find a wifi hot spot if you subscribe to Clearwire service, Clearwire will also provide free wi-fi hot spots for visitors and occational users who do not subscribe to WiMAX. Help us by suggesting hot spot locations and web links by submitting your suggestions here. ​ For more information: About WiMAX Technology Discounted Service for Low Income Residents clearwire.com If you have questions, suggestions, or to receive email updates please contact: swesorick@grcity.us Wireless Project Manager