Why Free NYC Wifi?

In the Washpo.  Really far beyond just providing easy and free communications between  people and services.  I am reminded of the early case of free Wifi in airports, which competed with pay services that had already been established.  How does this compare?    " ... At this very moment in New York City, you can walk up to one of 65 futuristic kiosks, punch in an email address on your phone and instantly receive a wireless Internet connection that follows you around town. ... "