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Grace Grissom can now take advantage of free wi-fi when she uses her phone on Main Street. A ribbon cutting for the project has been set for Tuesday morning.

Let there be free wi-fi.

A stroll along the sidewalk in Historic Downtown McMinnville will now include savings on data usage. 

McMinnville Downtown Free Public Wi-Fi is available with just a couple clicks to connect a device to the internet. Coverage areas extend from Cumberland Biscuit Company down Main Street to Moore’s Office Supply and also under the Farmers Market pavilion.

To log on, users select the “Downtown Wi-fi Public” network from the list of available wireless networks, agree to terms and conditions, and then connect to the internet. Users can remain connected for two hours before they need to reconnect for another free two hours.

Wi-fi on Main Street is available from 5 a.m. to 12 a.m., and wi-fi at the Farmers Market is available from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Both networks are available seven days a week.

The wi-fi network uses a system of 13 antennas and dishes positioned atop buildings to create a blanket of coverage along Main Street. Strategic positioning of these devices creates a strong, consistent signal throughout the coverage area.

A ribbon cutting is scheduled for this Tuesday, July 20 at 10:30 a.m. at City Hall to celebrate the project and the partners instrumental to its success.

Partnerships with nine downtown businesses and property owners to place the equipment ensured the best coverage area possible. These partners include Citizens Tri-County Bank, Cumberland Biscuit Company, First National Bank of Middle Tennessee, Main Street Center, Moore's Office Supply, Panther Creek Forestry, Paul Holder Realty & Auction, The Twisted Yogis, and TOPZ/ Metro Deli.

A grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission, support from TN Department of Economic and Community Development, groundwork by the Warren County Chamber of Commerce, the partnership with downtown businesses and property owners, and teamwork with Ben Lomand Connect made the downtown network possible.

The Tuesday morning ribbon cutting will celebrate the project and its partners. The event will include brief remarks, light refreshments, and a photo opportunity for all the partners. All are encouraged to join the festivities.

For more information, contact Katie Kemezis at 473-1204.