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Vermont Engineer Revives Free Pay Phones for Students

11/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Patrick Schlott, an electrical engineer from South Burlington, Vermont, has restored and installed free pay phones across the state.
The phones allow coinless calls throughout the United States and Canada via VoIP.
Demand has grown, particularly among students, as Vermont plans to ban smartphones in schools by 2026.
Schlott funds the project with donations and personal finances, and plans to add coin functionality for fun.

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Story summary

Patrick Schlott, an electrical engineer from South Burlington, Vermont, has restored and installed free pay phones across the state.
The phones allow coinless calls throughout the United States and Canada via VoIP.
Demand has grown, particularly among students, as Vermont plans to ban smartphones in schools by 2026.
Schlott funds the project with donations and personal finances, and plans to add coin functionality for fun.