FORT WORTH (WBAP/KLIF)- The Fort Worth ISD Board took the next big step toward building a private, secure internet network during its regular meeting this week. The board approved renting three mobile trailers that will allow temporary cell tower sites to be raised in three neighborhoods.
The district will begin providing strong internet connectivity to selected communities by the first day of school on Aug. 16.
“Even though we aren’t having an virtual classes like we did this year we are preparing for students and parents to have that internet to communicate with schools, to do homework, projects and to understand how they can find information,” said Clint Bond with FWISD.
FWISD is developing its Wi-Fi plan to complement one already in the works by the City of Fort Worth. This collaboration will result in a system across Fort Worth that is both broad and deep.
The rented trailers will be used to lift required wireless equipment higher into the air while more permanent mounting poles are being erected on the grounds of Dunbar High School, Morningside Middle School and Rosemont Middle School.
The Phase 1 work will address 25% of the families most in need of internet service. Phase 2, scheduled to begin in December, will address the remaining 75% of targeted households in ZIP codes 76102, 76103, 76104, 76105, 76115, 76119 and 76164.
Funds for this essential project were approved by voters in the November 2020 Tax Ratification Election.
