Boingo’s Converged Wi-Fi and Private Networks Connect Rhode Island Convention Center & Amica Mutual Pavilion

The Rhode Island Convention Center (RICC) and Amica Mutual Pavilion (AMP) form a high-traffic, multi-use venue complex that hosts sports, entertainment and large-scale events in New England. RICC offers more than 120,000 square feet of exhibition and meeting space, while AMP—a 14,000-seat arena—hosts everything from AHL Providence Bruins hockey games to major concerts and top-tier college basketball, including NCAA tournament games and Big East Providence College Friars matchups. 

Challenge: Fueling Mobile Engagement and Digital Experiences 

Today’s event attendees expect more than just a seat or a simple exhibition booth. They expect Wi-Fi that works, apps that respond instantly and mobile on-demand everything – from tickets to snacks. Smartphones are central to how people engage, and legacy networks cannot keep up with growing digital demands. At RICC and AMP, the venues required smarter infrastructure to support their digital transformation.  

Boingo Solution: Converged Wi-Fi and Private Cellular Network  

To replace outdated networks and enable next generation venue capabilities, Boingo implemented a comprehensive connectivity upgrade across the entire RICC and AMP complex, including: 

• 500+ Wi-Fi 6/6E access points to maximize signal strength 
• A dedicated private cellular network for operational systems 

Results: Rhode Island Attracts World-Class Events  

With a single, converged solution supporting both front and back of house, Boingo’s next generation wireless network ensures reliable connectivity.  

The upgraded network supports: 

• Fast, secure connectivity across meeting rooms, exhibitor spaces, ballrooms and arena seats 
• Streamlined mobile ticketing and frictionless, contactless payments 
• Reliable, protected network access for venue staff, vendors and event organizers  
• Robust Wi-Fi for event exhibitors to support lead capture, live demos and point-of-sale (POS) ready systems  
• Enhanced smart venue capabilities, including lighting automation and digital signage 
• Infrastructure built to support large-scale, multi-venue events 
• On-demand conference services, including custom SSIDs, dedicated APs and wired connectivity for exhibitors 

With private networks powering internal communications and Wi-Fi enabling real-time fan engagement, the venues are operating smarter than ever. Tickets scanned in seconds? Check. Staff coordinating behind the scenes? Check. Guests connected from entry to encore? Also check. 

Connectivity is the backbone of every event we host—whether it’s a corporate conference, a concert, family show or sporting event. Choosing the right wireless partner was crucial, and Boingo stood out for their unmatched wireless expertise, network design capabilities and proven success in connecting large, multi-use venues and sports and entertainment facilities. Boingo supports our digital transformation by managing both our private cellular and Wi-Fi networks seamlessly, keeping our guests connected and operations running smoothly.

Dan McConaghy, Executive Director of the Rhode Island Convention Center Authority. 

RICC and AMP aren’t just connected—they’re built for what’s next. With a converged network designed for today’s demands and tomorrow’s innovations, these venues are redefining the connected fan experience.  

Learn more about how Boingo is transforming connectivity at leading sports and entertainment venues: boingo.com/sports-entertainment