Visitors to Kirkland's Everest Park and Houghton Beach Park can enjoy free WiFi thanks to partnership between City and Google

KIRKLAND, Wash. – If you find yourself at either Everest Park or Houghton Beach Park in Kirkland with your wireless laptop, tablet, or smartphone, you have the City of Kirkland and Google to thank for the free wireless Internet service. To thank Google for its $200,000+ donation to the City, Kirkland officials are hosting an appreciation event on July 6, 4 to 5 p.m. at Everest Park, at the covered shelter adjacent to Field D. The public is invited to attend and be among the first to log on from the Park.

Last fall, Google donated funding that helped to extend the City’s fiber network to the two parks, purchase and install equipment, and maintain the service for three years.

“This expanded service is such a complement to Kirkland’s character as a vibrant, connected community,” noted Mayor Amy Walen. “We are extremely grateful to have Google as a supportive neighbor and appreciate the generous donation they have made to make wireless available in two of our most popular parks.”

Houghton Beach Park is a popular place for outdoor volleyball, family picnicking, paddle boarding and swimming. Everest Park is popular for league sports, tournaments, and team practice and is a favorite community park.

“Kirkland’s parks are one of those places where civic engagement happens naturally - we hope that adding wifi coverage will benefit the community and enhance their experience of all the great things that Kirkland has to offer,” said Darcy Nothnagle, Google’s Head of External Affairs for the Northwest.

Free wireless is also available in downtown Kirkland, Peter Kirk Park and Marina Park. For specific questions about Kirkland’s Wireless Program, email wireless@kirklandwa.gov. For questions about the event contact Marie Jensen at mjensen@kirklandwa.gov.