Seward Secures $250k for Cooperstown WiFi Project

COOPERSTOWN, 12/05/17 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Oneonta) today announced a $250,000 state grant to fund a WiFi hotspot program in the Village of Cooperstown.  Officials from MIDTEL, the Village of Cooperstown, and Otsego Now will work together to implement the pilot program which will greatly enhance communication capabilities in the village.

“Cooperstown is known worldwide as a tourism mecca,” said Senator Seward.  “When travelers come to the village it is essential that they have a first-class experience, it can lead to return visits and even a fulltime change in address.  The new WiFi hotspot program will enhance communication for visitors and residents alike and will open the door for local businesses to better promote their products and services.  The new system can also be a lifeline in the event of an emergency.  This public-private partnership is a model of what can be done to improve our Main Streets and I fully expect to see it replicated throughout upstate New York.”

MIDTEL President Jim Becker said, “We are excited to partner with Cooperstown and Otsego Now on this endeavor that will meld Cooperstown’s small town charm with current technology.  Senator Seward’s involvement was key to advancing this project and we truly appreciate his help in making this vision a reality.”

Village of Cooperstown Mayor Jeff Katz said, “Senator Seward has consistently partnered with Cooperstown as we have worked to upgrade our infrastructure in recent years.  The WiFi hotspot program is the latest example of his strong efforts on behalf of our businesses and residents.”

Otsego Now CEO Jody Zakrevsky said, “This new public-private partnership will not only benefit existing businesses, but will help us market Cooperstown to future employers and young professionals.  Projects like this are what is needed to bolster Otsego County’s economy and I look forward to working with Senator Seward on additional ventures.”

The pilot program will bring public WiFi access to Main Street, Cooperstown.  The service offerings will include: a free, low speed, limited access time option for people who just need to check email or do some light browsing; a more robust service for a monthly subscription fee, and; 1-day, 3-day, and 7-day passes for those visiting the area.  Local businesses will have the ability to have their own WiFi service, offer their customers WiFi service, and purchase advertising on the various platforms.  

The $250,000 grant is under the state’s Economic Development Assistance Program (EDAP) and is administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY).

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MIDTEL is headquartered in Middleburgh, NY and has been providing innovative telecommunications services for the past 120 years.  MIDTEL can be found on the web at www.midtel.com.