The summit includes the city, non-profits, and Michael Oh: You can't swing a Yagi antenna in Boston without hitting something that Michael Oh is working on. This summit is due in part to his efforts along with others interested in expanding wireless Internet access. The agenda is to figure out how wireless technology could make Boston better without, it seems, any particular hook like "free wireless for everyone." Meeting details are on Boston Councilor John Tobin's Web site.
I'm sorry to see them go. BTW as I dial-up customer ($6.95/mo.)I can use the hotspots too. From their FAQ:
If I am a Verizon Online dial-up customer, can I use the Verizon Wi-Fi HotSpot Network?
Yes. Currently, Verizon Online dial-up customers have access to all Verizon Wi-Fi HotSpots at no additional charge. In the near future, this benefit may only be available free of charge to residential DSL customers and Verizon Internet service business customers.
(End of quote)
I think Verizon never had their heart in this. The hotspots in the outer boroughs (Queens, where I live and Brooklyn) where shut down a long time ago. I think the Bronx and Staten Island never had any.
The number of hotspots on Manhattan has been shrinking and a lot of them are 'temporarily not available'. I used one today near city hall and another one the other day from the window of a pizza joint (the payphone was a block away).
But I could not get connected right by Verizon's headquarters across the street from Bryant Park.
Check http://www.verizon.net/wifi/