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BURLINGTON, N.C. — People who live and work in downtown Burlington have a new tool to help them through their workday.

The city of Burlington is the latest North Carolina city to add free Wi-Fi for its patrons. Roger Burden is with the city of Burlington. He said the $85,000 project was funded by a stimulus grant. It spans 16 blocks covering the depot area, Burlington City Park and a number of businesses.

"It's the future for cities because we have to compete with other cities to attract businesses to the area and also citizens," said Burden.

Zack Touloupas runs Zack's Hot Dogs. The 80-year-old family owned restaurant and he said any improvements to the city means potential customers for his business.

"I'm all for it because the more businesses that are down here, the more people we attract, and the more people we attract, I'm sure I will have the opportunity to feed some of them," said Touloupas.

While the service may bring more people to downtown and fill empty store fronts, the city hopes it will also boost response times for first responders.