Free internet hot spots open in Pasco during coronavirus outbreak

Franklin PUD Broadband has set up free Wi-Fi hotspots around Franklin County to help give teachers and students access to high speed internet.

“The goal is to reach kids and families who may not have internet access or who don’t have fast enough internet speeds needed to complete homework during the COVID-19 distance learning,” said Ben Hooper, the public utility district’s broadband manager.

The hotspots prompted by the new coronavirus pandemic will be available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, and users can long on to the internet from their phone, tablet or laptop without a password. They should get a connection within an 800-foot radius.

The Franklin PUD expects to add more hotspots. So far they are in:

• Pasco, go to Memorial Park at 350 N. 14th Ave., and log onto the network FBB_Public_WiFi.
• Connell, go to the community center on Elm Street and log onto the network PUD_Connell_Public_WiFi.
• Kahlotus, go to the intersection of Durham Avenue and West Martin Street near the community pool and log onto the network PUD_Public_WiFi.
• Mesa, go to the Bailie Land and Cattle Co. at 205 First Ave. and long onto PUD_Mesa_Public_WiFi.