Multifamily Musings: Wireless Options

Last week, I wrote about open access for multiple service providers. Currently, this debate centers on “wired” services –- like TV and telephone. For now, Internet also is typically included in the wired category, but with the proliferation of wireless Internet services such as Wi-Fi, WiMax and cellular, will that change? Can property owners prevent multiple providers from offering wireless services at their communities? Is there enough business for more than one ISP on a property, be it wired or wireless?

In addition to presenting a serious technology challenge, this issue poses an interesting contractual situation as well. In the not-too-distant-future, this is going to become an issue that the industry will need to handle. Everyone -– including service providers, developers, attorneys, and architects –- needs to start working together to find a solution. Any ideas about where we start?