MobilePro lands Yuma, Ariz., network

BETHESDA, Md., April 20 (UPI) -- MobilePro Corp. was selected to design, deploy and operate a mesh wireless network in Yuma, Ariz., the company announced Thursday.

The third-largest city in Arizona, Yuma is the ninth city to partner with MobilePro.

According to the Bethesda, Md.-based company, the wireless network will initially cover a portion of the city's total 106 square miles and offer subscription services on a monthly, daily or hourly basis with access to multiple Internet service providers.

But WiFi-enabled devices will have free access to the network landing page.

"We believe that high-speed Internet access is an essential service for rapidly growing communities like Yuma," said Jon Steadman, MobilePro's executive vice president and chief operating officer. "Yuma is the fourth of many Arizona cities that we look forward to serving with our retail partners and providing attractive bundled service plans and mobility."

Deployment of the network begins late 2006.

"This venture brings a new cost-effective, high-tech, wireless broadband service to our citizens and businesses, enabling us to 'break-the-wires' and access information across the city without being tied to a desk," Yuma Mayor Larry Nelson added. "This capability will enable Yuma city employees to more effectively provide services without cost to the taxpayer, and provide mobile Internet access for anyone in Yuma at minimal cost."