Franklin PUD sets up free internet hotspots in rural communities

PASCO, Wash.-- Franklin PUD has set up several wi-fi hotspots in Franklin County, providing residents in rural areas with free wireless internet access.

Utilities like Franklin PUD provide much of the infrastructure for local broadband for internet service providers in the area.

PUDs across the state have been working with the Washington State Board of Education since the COVID-19 pandemic closed school, to expand broadband access for rural areas of the state.

Franklin P-U-D recently established four public wi-fi hotspots in Franklin County:

PASCO
Memorial Park, 350 N 14^th Ave. Pasco, WA
Wireless Network Name: FBB_Public_WiFi

CONNELL
Connell Community Center, 211 E. Elm Street Connell, WA
Wireless Network Name: PUD_Connell_Public_WiFi

KAHLOTUS
Intersection of Durham Ave and W. Martin St - near the community pool
Wireless Network Name: PUD_Public_WiFi

MESA
Bailie Land and Cattle Company, 205 1^st Ave Mesa, WA
Wireless Network Name: PUD_Mesa_Public_WiFi

"You can access these with your phone or your laptop. They can do most things that you would do at home-- they've got really high capabilities so you can steam video, or get on the internet and access whatever websites you want," said Mike Gonzalez with Franklin PUD.

While the hotspots are in public spaces, you're still expected to practice social distancing.

"Keep at least six feet apart from a person that may be using these wireless access points. They're also asking folks to stay in your car if you're able to." Gonzalez said.

Franklin PUD’s HELP Page provides additional resources at www.franklinpud.com/help.