Proposal to use Boston payphones as Wi-Fi units

BOSTON -- A proposal is in the works to convert payphones to Wi-Fi hot spots in Boston.

City council members want to transform these kiosks, into a source of free, wireless Internet connections.

"It's an old technology that very few people still use, which is the payphone, and how do we turn it into something people use and need today?" Felix Arroyo, Boston City Council.

7News was told the Wi-Fi connection would be able to carry up to 300 feet away.

Some people don't like the idea.

"I don't think it's a good idea. I think people who don't have cell phones need a way to call somebody in case of an emergency or something like that," said Justin Harrison.

But Arroyo says the hot spots could bring Internet access to those who can't afford it, and in turn, closing the digital divide.

There are no official plans yet, but Boston City Council members hope to mimic a similar pilot payphone program that was launched in New York City three weeks ago.