In plain language — from the agenda backup
This item authorizes a license agreement with Boldyn Networks US IV, LLC to install a Distributed Antenna System at the Austin Convention Center on East 3rd Street, the Palmer Events Center on Barton Springs Road, and the Warehouse and Marshalling Yard on Airport Commerce Drive. The system is aimed at boosting cellular connectivity for conventions and events \u2014 a familiar pain point when thousands of badge-wearing visitors all reach for their phones at once. The initial term runs seven years with one three-year extension option, and the agreement is projected to bring in an additional $200,000 in revenue to the Convention Center's operating budget once the new convention center is up and running.
The official agenda language
Authorize negotiation and execution of a license agreement with Boldyn Networks US IV, LLC on behalf of Austin Convention Center, for an initial term of seven years, plus one three-year extension option, for the installation of a Distributed Antenna System for the purpose of increasing connectivity for convention and event-related activities, and to maintain reliable cellular service at the Austin Convention Center located at 500 East 3rd Street, Austin, Texas 78701, the Palmer Events Center located at 900 Barton Springs Road, Austin, Texas 78704, and the Warehouse and Marshalling Yard, located at 1400 Airport Commerce Drive, Austin, Texas 78741, collectively. Funding: This item is projected to result in additional revenue of $200,000 in the Operating Budget of Austin Convention Center when the new convention center is in operation.
"Hearing none without objection. The consent agenda is adopted." — meeting transcript (unofficial)
What got said
- Philip Fitzgerald opposed the convention center expansion, arguing the city should instead use tax revenue to support Austinites.