Grand Rapids Clearwire History

May 2005
Following extensive research, the city experienced “the Summer of Wi-Fi” with 8 free wireless demonstration networks available throughout the city.

January 2006
The City issued a RFP seeking a high speed wireless broadband network with the primary goal of enhancing Public Safety

December 2006
WiMAX was selected as the most suitable technology to meet the City’s needs & Clearwire was selected as the company to build, own, and operate the WiMAX network.

January 2007
The contract was executed and construction began immediately.  In the first 6 months, the project was right on target to launch service by the end of the year. 

July 2007
Sprint and Clearwire suspended all construction pending the outcome of partnership discussions.

November 20, 2008
Stockholders approve Clearwire’s partnership with Sprint’s mobile WiMAX business which includes the investment of $3.2 billion by Intel, Google, Comcast, Time Warner Cable, and Bright House Networks.

December 2009
A Schaumburg-based wireless provider files a lawsuit asserting that Clearwire sales would breach their exclusivity provisions with Sprint.

November 2009
The litigating company agrees to be acquired by Sprint Nextel.  The deal settles the legal battle.  All necessary approvals occur in November.

August 2010
Clearwire’s Clear 4G Mobile WiMAX service launches in Grand Rapids covering 105 square miles and more than 214,000 people with service extending as far north as 7 mile road, south to route 6, east to i-96, and west to Route 11.