founding :: June 2004 by Andy Stoll, Paul Burns, Rob Pilaszewski, Scott Fiddelke, Joe Hetrick, Jamie Licko, Tyler Olson, David Chadima, Scott Larson.

how it encourages creativity :: Like a public library, free wireless internet gives access to knowledge and resouces for individuals pursuing their creative endeavors.

how it encourages service :: Free wireless adds value to public spaces and encourages people to interact in the community.

fast facts ::

• The project will use a wireless mesh network that will bring wireless hotspots to outdoor public spaces in downtown Iowa City, Coralville, and Cedar Rapids.
• Many other public and private entities have pledged financial contributions to the project, including the City of Coralville, the Cedar Rapids Downtown District, and Linn County. The City of Cedar Rapids has expressed interest in the project and is considering a commitment at this time, as are public and private entities in Iowa City and Johnson County. Bradley and Riley, New Bohemia, and Avalon Networks have made additional commitments to the project.

  Future development of the network could see wireless access eventually grow to other communities in the corridor as well. “Once we get the networks in the three anchor communities up and working, we can consider expanding our network. If other communities in the Corridor have interest in cFree, we’d like to hear from them,” said Jamie Licko, one of the directors of the project.

  The cFree wireless project was inspired by five key principles:
  
  1. Public access to the internet can help individuals pursue their own creative endeavors and personal interests, thus increasing quality of life.
  2. Free internet access adds value to public spaces and parks, thus encouraging more community members to utilize these spaces and increase the pedestrian traffic in business districts.
  3. The implementation of this wireless project will encourage people to interact in the community, stimulate business, and move Cedar Rapids, Iowa City and Coralville towards the technology of the future. Interacting neighbors build stronger communities.
  4. Free wireless hotspots add technological “Style” to urban environments. Along the lines of the theories of Richard Florida in his book, The Rise of the Creative Class, cool cities draw people that drive the creative economy.
  5. Collaboration between groups often perceived as disparate can build projects that create a stronger sense of community and shared vision for the future of The Corridor

more information :: www.cfreewireless.org