Wireless provider among few reaching into outlying areas

Tucson, Arizona | Published: 07.19.2008 People in the sticks don't have to rely on Internet service that stinks. RuralNet Wireless LLC, a recent Tucson-based startup, is offering Internet access around Southern Arizona, where technology or infrastructure limitations prevent rural residents from getting other types of high-speed service. RuralNet is among a growing number of companies that are itching to meet the demands of rural residents, particularly as the Sprint Broadband Direct service — a recently defunct Internet service — has left some local customers in the dark. SimplyBits LLC and WildBlue are among other companies that are offering rural Arizona customers wireless access. "It's a big deal out in our neighborhood," said Robin Clark, who lives a couple of miles from the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum and doesn't have... [read full story]