News

E-ports help tourists with a touch of the screen

June 15, 2004

DULUTH, Minn. - Six computerized kiosks will be available in public places to assist visitors looking to experience what the city has to offer, according to an article in the Duluth News Tribune.

These kiosks, called e-ports, also broadcast wireless Internet access within a 300-foot range. If someone is nearby with a PDA or laptop computer with wireless capability they could use the network to access the Internet.

But anyone using the access will not remain anonymous. Information is collected from users to find out more about those who visit Duluth.

The e-port is "unlike any other product in the world," Mayor Herb Bergson said Tuesday. "Other communities are going to get out there and do this, so let's be the first."

The kiosks are part of the mayor's "e-city of the north" initiative, which involves tourism enhancement and economic development.

"Impressing upon our visitors the duality of our incredible natural beauty/lifestyle along with the e-campus mentality will communicate that Duluth is the embodiment of what today's knowledge workers seek," Bergson said. "This is the Holy Grail for Duluth's future economic viability outside of the tourist and taconite mind-set."

In addition to the kiosks, his vision also includes a Wi-Fi network in downtown, Canal Park and additional hot spots.

Many cities are working to assemble wireless Internet systems, but to date, "there are very few cities that have citywide Wi-Fi," said Monica Paolini, an analyst at Senza Fili Consulting in Seattle. "It's not very expensive, but it provides a great service to the populace and visitors."