Michigan's Renowned Grand Traverse Resort & Spa Upgrades Internet Coverage With Firetide Wireless Mesh Network

Los Gatos, CA - Firetide Inc., a developer of wireless mesh networks, recently announced that the Grand Traverse Resort & Spa, one of the world's top 50 destinations according to Condé Nast, recently completed deploying a Firetide wireless mesh network throughout its 900-acre property. Using Firetide HotPort wireless mesh nodes and HotPoint access points, Grand Traverse installed a total of 50 nodes and 70 access points throughout the property to replace, expand and improve the resort's existing system. The project was part of the 26-year-old property's $14M renovation project.

With the previous network system, wireless coverage was limited and six of the Grand Traverse condominium complexes were completely without access to the Internet. This lack of coverage was a deterrent for guests who expect state-of-the-art communication service throughout the resort. Because several of the condoplexes are located away from the main hotel, distance presented a challenge.

"The deployment of the Firetide network was a much-needed solution to a significant problem," said Scott Van Houzen, the resort's director of information systems. "Now that the Firetide network is in place, we can offer guests a variety of options for accessing the Internet, an amenity many vacationers and business people can't do without. In addition, we're ready for any of the new services that are emerging in the hospitality industry."

The Firetide network installation was divided into three phases. In the first phase, new equipment was installed to provide Internet access to the condominium units. In the second phase, the main complex – low-rise hotel and tower – were revamped with more modern equipment. The planned phase three will be tackled next – providing wireless access to the resort's three golf courses including the Bear, designed by Jack Nicklaus, and the Wolverine, designed by Gary Player.

"The Firetide mesh network that now supports Grand Traverse Resort & Spa is a perfect model for other large resorts, campuses and businesses requiring high performance, reliable wireless networks," said Bo Larsson, chief executive officer of Firetide. "With the Firetide network in place, Grand Traverse can finally provide its guests and visitors comprehensive Internet access wherever they need it, whenever they need it."

Charter Communications recommended the wireless mesh network, as well as partnered with the Grand Traverse Resort on the purchase and installation. Charter has had a long-term relationship with the Grand Traverse Resort as the resort's solutions provider of video, Internet and wide area network connectivity.

"After evaluating a number of mesh products, we ultimately selected the Firetide network based on price, performance, functionality and reliability," said Joni Brengman, director of commercial business for Charter. "We are pleased to be able to further our long-standing relationship with the Grand Traverse Resort and feel confident that the Firetide network will serve the wireless needs of the resort well into the future."

In addition to providing resort guests with Internet access in all guest rooms and multiple hot spots throughout the property, the new Firetide wireless network has replaced the resort's outdated wireless network for connection to the property's point-of-sale system. Firetide provides connectivity for some of the concessionary locations on the golf courses, and will support further expansion.

SOURCE: Firetide, Inc.