Spokane's proposal for a city-side network would have two parallel uses: a protected, private public safety net, and a public side for general use: The network currently exists downtown and response to the Washington town's effort has been positive. The downtown network will ultimately span about 100 city blocks and cost north of $500,000 due to donations from Vivato and other vendors. The city's pitch for funding will play on the improved service for public safety (fire, medical, police). Oddly, the story doesn't mention two frequently cited reasons for switching to Wi-Fi for public safety: redundancy with other coverage for emergencies, and cost savings because most public safety radio equipment uses licensed spectrum and proprietary devices.