A very hot topic in the news this spring is Wi-Fi, “wireless fidelity.” It’s not just about wireless access in a building or outdoor hot spot, but it’s all about wireless internet access in large geographical areas, possibly throughout an entire City. Philidelphia is doing it and so is Chaska, Minnesota. (Read the Chaska white paper (pdf) called chaska.net Overview.)Minneapolis is issuing an RFP this spring and at least two companies have indicated their intent to submit proposals.

Tuesday, May 3, the NDDC Downtown Forum will present a panel of four experts on this topic and the economic development ramifications of providing wireless technology throughout a district or city. Our guests will include Bob Courchaine of Northfield Internetworking; Jane Leonard of Minnesota Rural Partners; Dave Pokorney from the City of Chaska; and Stuart DeVaan, CEO of implex.net. After each panelist makes a brief presentation, questions will be taken from the audience.

The meeting will be in the lower level conference room of the Archer House Historic Inn from 8 – 9:30 am. This event is free and open to the public; light refreshments will be served. Please call 663-0319 for more information.