Rail a "Robust Market" for Wi-Fi

Wireless Jitney's headed out to the Hamptons, according to Wi-Fi Networking News, has Wi-Fi access. The same blog has news of Le Wi-Fi Bus in Paris. RCR Wireless News reports that AT&T Wireless Services has begun offering Wi-Fi services in train stations. So why, here in Silicon Valley, aren't we in the lead on Wi-Fi on our public transportation?

In August of last year the East Bay Business times reported that the Stockton-San Jose "Altamont Commuter Express" would offer free Wi-Fi and that a similar service would be available on the Sacramento to San Jose Amtrack "Capitol Corridor" line. According to the same article, BART is discussing a news-only service.

Shawn Griffin, president and chief executive of PointShot Wireless is quoted as saying "Rail is a very robust market for Wi-Fi." Despite this rosy outlook back in October of last year, the Altamont Commuter Rail now only offers Wi-Fi in a single car, through a partnership with the University of Phoenix.

So when will we see Wi-Fi on the rails here in the Bay Area?