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Schorndorf: Free WiFi will be switched off – citizens outraged by the decision!
Schorndorf will switch off free WiFi on November 30th. Discussions about financing and broadband expansion cause controversy.
Schorndorf: Free WiFi will be switched off – citizens outraged by the decision!
In Schorndorf, the situation surrounding free Wi-Fi has been a topic of conversation in recent days. According to the city administration, free WiFi, a popular offer for citizens and visitors, will be switched off on November 30th. The reason for this is repeated disruptions that have affected operations. Rita Costa, a citizen, spoke out in a letter to the editor and described the decision as a “tragedy”. She provocatively asked why Schorndorf was unable to raise 200,000 euros for the continued operation of the WLAN and turned directly to Mayor Bernd Hornikel to express her concerns. ZVW reports that ...
The debate over WiFi raises questions about Schorndorf's digital future. Many citizens cannot understand the lack of functioning public Internet access these days. At the same time, we are working hard elsewhere on broadband expansion. The city is strongly committed to high-speed internet and aims to provide the entire region with fiber optic networks. Schorndorf.de highlights that...
Broadband expansion in Schorndorf
As part of this initiative, several projects are being implemented in different parts of the city. Telekom Deutschland was awarded the contract for the expansion in the core city, supported by massive funding totaling 9.35 million euros. A significant proportion of the address points there, namely 23%, are still underserved, which affects not only households but also numerous commercial establishments.
An expansion project was also decided in Buhlbronn, which is being pushed forward thanks to 1.65 million euros in funding. 89% of the address points are affected here. There is also progress in the districts of Haubersbronn, Wellingshof and Schornbach. A total of over 5 million euros will be invested in these areas to sustainably improve internet provision. Schorndorf.de informs that...
A step into the future
The city's goal remains clear: nationwide coverage of fast internet, with download speeds of up to 1,000 MBit/s being aimed for. The funded expansion also has the concept of “Open Access” in mind. This regulation provides that other telecommunications companies will have access to the subsidized gigabit network, so that citizens will have a greater choice of providers. This could also reignite the discussion about free WiFi in the future.
In the meantime, the question is ultimately whether switching off the free WiFi in Schorndorf is actually the right step or whether completely different solutions need to be found in order to keep the city's digital infrastructure attractive for all citizens. Investments are being made in so many areas that it would be unfortunate if the WiFi, which is available to many, could not be maintained.