PITTSFIELD, Mass. — As part of its ongoing commitment to advancing digital equity, the city of Pittsfield has expanded its downtown public Wi-Fi network.

 

Free Wi-Fi is now available via the network name "Pittsfield_Free_WiFi" from the intersection of East and West Housatonic streets and South Street north to the intersection of Linden Street and Maplewood Avenue, as well as North Street.

 

The network also includes The Common, a city park located at 100 First St.

 

The expansion was made possible through the commonwealth's Community Compact Cabinet Information Technology Grant Program.

 

"The expanded network provides free wireless internet to those who need access to this resource, while complementing our existing indoor public Wi-Fi access points," said the city's Chief Information Officer Kevin Zawistowski. "In addition to the Community Compact IT Grant, the city is participating in the Municipal Digital Equity Planning Program through the Massachusetts Broadband Initiative. 

 

"With the help of the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission, this program will help guide municipal decision-making and investments related to services and infrastructure, as well as support the city's application for future state and federal digital equity grants to move this work forward. Community members are encouraged to share ideas regarding the city's efforts toward establishing a more equitable digital landscape."

 

While the expanded network provides more access options for patrons in these areas, Zawistowski said he encourages individuals to be mindful when using this or any other public network.

 

"Users are reminded to exercise caution when sharing personal or sensitive information while connected to public Wi-Fi networks and are encouraged to use encrypted connections where possible," he said. 

 

Safety tips and more information on public Wi-Fi is available here

.

To report any network-related issues, users should visit www.cityofpittsfield.org/report and select "IT" in the Request for Services menu to access the "Public Wi-Fi" link or download the PittSMART app to submit a comment.

 

To share information pertaining to digital equity in Pittsfield, email Zawistowski at kzawistowski@cityofpittsfield.org.