David discusses a project in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, in which transit buses become part of a wireless mesh - that lets riders get on the 'Net at T-1 speeds and which aims to make the buses more secure (drivers have panic buttons and cameras that, once the button is pressed, can be controlled remotely by police):

If it's true, it's a helluva value, somewhere near the intersection of Mass. Ave. and Boylston St.

WiFi signals may not travel well past the front of stores. Main Streets hopes to encourage business owners to get the signal deeper into their buildings via discounted packages consisting of a Colubris repeater, installation and a decal that let's shopowners let the public know they offer free Wi-Fi. The equipment will cost about $300, installation about $45, although the first storeowners to sign up will get free installation.

The goal of the WiFi program is not to compete with ISPs but instead give business owners in each of the city's 19 Main Street commercial districts an new tool for attracting customers.

John isn't buying Massport's contention that it had to shut down free Wi-Fi competitors to its paid service at Logan for public-safety reasons:

... Critical public safety communications? This is about homeland security? Please. They must think we're idiots.

According to an Intel survey, 12 metro regions have better overall wireless connectivity than Boston - including Minneapolis, Denver and Toledo, Ohio:

... Survey findings are based on the number of commercial and public or "free" wireless Internet access points (hotspots), airports with wireless Internet access, and broadband availability. The survey also included community wireless Internet access points, local wireless networks and wireless e-mail devices. ...