Cogent technology provides a connectivity rate that is approximately 100 times faster than T1 capacity and is offered for $1,000 per month, well below the cost of a T1 connection. In addition to launching its services here and in its headquarters city late last year, the Washington, DC-based firm made its debut in Chicago and Philadelphia. By the end of the second quarter of 2001 it plans be set up in nine other metropolitan areas.

"As the developers of the New York Information Technology Center at 55 Broad St., as well as other high-tech real estate developments, the Rudin organization clearly understands the value 'smart buildings' deliver, says John Gilbert, COO and CTO of Rudin. "Adding the Cogent solution to our portfolio of amenities means our tenants will benefit not only from 'smarts,' but from unprecedented speed." he adds.