US Edition'Something really positive:' Old payphones get new life, thanks to engineer
- Patrick Schlott of Williamstown installed free 1950s-era rotary payphones called RandTel at Vermont locations including the Randolph Info Barn in 2025.
- Inspired by projects in Philadelphia and Portland, Schlott started RandTel due to reduced payphone use caused by widespread cell phone availability and signal issues in rural Vermont.
- Schlott funds RandTel personally and views it as a hobby and volunteer effort to serve communities lacking reliable cell service, placing phones at libraries and stores where usage is public and free.
- Schlott expressed that his work installing the vintage phone would be rewarding if it benefits just a single individual, while Andrea Easton from the White River Valley Chamber highlighted the strong community backing for the project.
- RandTel phones provide free access where smartphones may fail due to battery or coverage, suggesting the project could offer practical help and preserve communication options in rural Vermont.
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