HOLLYWOOD, FL – (January 20, 2009) – Sling Broadband, LLC One of the nation’s largest Wimax broadband network operators announced today that it has been selected as provider of wireless broadband internet service by The City of Hollywood, Florida.
Hollywood a city in Broward County, Florida, Characterized by quaint sidewalk cafés, brick lined walks and unique boutiques, shops, art galleries and dozens of excellent restaurants. The pedestrian-friendly environment is the perfect place to enjoy South Florida; Just minutes from the beach, the downtown district is on the National Register of Historic Places and is the backdrop for year-round festivals, street markets and entertainment.
The new Wi-Fi communications platform will allow Hollywood’s public safety agencies to operate more efficiently while providing free outdoor Internet access to all city residents, businesses and visitors. Wi-Fi users will enjoy Internet access at speeds similar to that of DSL, while the strength of the municipal signal will allow, for example, police officers in squad cars to download information vital to public safety quickly and efficiently over a secure network.
“Today’s approval of this technology project puts Hollywood on the cutting edge of Florida’s cities in providing superior service to its residents and positions us to continue attracting world class technology and life sciences companies,” said Hollywood Mayor Mara Giulianti. “I am particularly excited about Hollywood’s being a wireless city and the versatility it provides. This initiative continues to build on our commitment to use technology to enhance the efficiency of local government and provide the highest quality municipal services.”
The operational and energy efficiencies from the projects are expected to save Hollywood more than $23 million during a 15-year period. Johnson Controls, under the terms of the performance contract, will guarantee performance of the technology improvements. The savings will come from the performance of the wireless technologies, which will create operational efficiencies in multiple departments and streamline many city functions.
Wireless technology will enable Hollywood’s water meter reading process to become fully automated. This will ensure all utility customers obtain accurate and timely water billings based on actual – not estimated – usage. An automated system also gives the city flexible billing options and provides leak detection capabilities.
