Santa Monica, CA, is the latest municipality to jump on the wireless network bandwagon, issuing a call for proposals to build a wireless mesh broadband network for the 8.3-sq.-mi. community where 87,000 people live. Initially the network will support handheld, fixed and vehicle mounted applications, in addition to expanding current free wireless connectivity to residents. Down the road the city hopes to add utility meter reading applications and parking occupancy applications. According to CIO Jory Wolf, the city won't own the network but will continue to run the fiber network backbone. By taking this approach, he believes the municipal network won't be in direct competition with local Internet service providers and the city won't be handing over valued assets. In partnering with private companies, he aims to build a large network that will provide everyone, and every city department, the connectivity needed to expand wireless capabilities.

For more on the city's network plan:
- read this article Municipal Wireless