Newport Eyes Faster Online Access

Newport could become Rhode Island's first 'gigabit city' — a community that can provide up to 1 gB/sec online speeds — under the direction of the Information Technology Working Group.

Adding the higher-speed access would make Newport more competitive in the chase for new small businesses that require faster Internet speeds, the Broadband RI website reported.

The group is currently planning an inventory of hardware in the city to determine what other infrastructure may be needed.

City Councilor Naomi Neville told the website, managed by the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation, that her view is for what she termed an "historic high-tech city."

Firehouse Theater owner Jack Maytum, also a member of the IT Working Group, said in the BBRI article that improved Internet speeds may also provide an additional benefit to tourists.