Mexico City Explores Wireless Internet

The city's new mayor said he hopes to offer high-speed wireless Internet to all 8.7 million residents of this sprawling metropolis, even as it struggles to supply basic services such as water and electricity.

Marcelo Ebrard signed an agreement Monday with China's ZTE Corp. to set up wireless broadband "hotspots" linking schools, government offices and the city's thousands of surveillance cameras.

"The city government is giving this project the highest priority," Ebrard said, adding that the project will get off the ground within months.

Speaking later to reporters, Ebrard said he hopes the service can quickly be expanded citywide.