HUGE NEWS: GR's wireless Internet pick could cover entire city

This is good and bad. Good, because WiMAX's 802.16 will probably have stronger and wider coverage than standard WiFi 802.11. Bad, because computers equipped for 802.11 (virtually every PC currently set up for wireless) won't "just work" with 802.16. Either "WiMAX-ready" computers or WiMAX cards (neither of which are very available at this time) will be required.

This is a curious choice for Grand Rapids. It seems to be a decision based upon it being 2009 instead of 2007. Planning for the future is great, particularly with technology. But the first few years of the program are almost certainly going to be trouble and complaint filled ones.

Still, I applaud the move by the city. Broadband internet access is turning into a key facet of life, and it is becoming increasingly important for having an informed citizenry.

And I'm hoping that WiMAX means that access will be good in the city of Wyoming from the get-go.