Internet service provider 20/20 Communications of Ann Arbor Michigan is using Siemens solutions and services on the “Wireless Washtenaw” project in Michigan’s Washtenaw County. County officials developed the project to bring wireless broadband service to all areas of the county, especially to suburban and rural residents who could only access the Internet using slower-speed dialup connections. Siemens and 20/20 have already began installing wireless infrastructure in Ann Arbor, Saline, and Manchester as part of a pilot program that county officials expect will pave the way for full-scale deployment of services in 2007.

“This pioneering effort to provide a convenient, openly mobile and secure wireless Internet experience to everyone in the community regardless of their geographic location or economic status is of great importance to Siemens,” said Dana Rasmussen, president, sales and services, Siemens Communications Inc. “Wireless Washtenaw will improve the quality of life and support economic growth in Washtenaw County, while serving as a model for other communities to follow.”

The wireless initiative will bring free, basic wireless Internet access to anyone in the county and higher-speed access for a fee. Developed and funded without the use of public tax dollars, Wireless Washtenaw was spearheaded by the deputy administrator of Washtenaw County, David Behen, and a consortium of local stakeholders, universities, and government representatives.

Under the terms of the Wireless Washtenaw project, Siemens and 20/20 Communications are providing a turnkey solution, with 20/20 owning and operating the network, and Siemens serving as equipment vendor, system integrator, and services provider. For the project, Siemens is providing Wi-Fi mesh radio network, wireless integration platform for authentication and provisioning, installation, design, RF engineering, and maintenance. In addition, it is also offering managed services, including service desk support, network operating center (NOC) monitoring, and remote network management services

Located in southeast Michigan, Washtenaw County encompasses 720 square miles and has a total population of 347,111 people. Residents live in urban, suburban, and rural areas, and cities including Ann Arbor - home to the University of Michigan and Eastern Michigan University.