The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (Metro) has launched a new pilot program to give passengers on select 54 Scott and 204 Spring Park & Ride bus routes, as well as Metro Rail’s Green and Purple lines, free access to Wi-Fi while on board.
The free connection is available from any phone, tablet or mobile computing device. The routes were chosen, in part, due to their proximity to universities and other schools.
Houston, Texas, Mayor Sylvester Turner joined Metro Board Chair Carrin Patman and Cameron Carr, director of Internet of Things strategy, scale and smart city, Microsoft Corp., to announce the official start to the pilot. It is part of the city of Houston's smart city initiative to foster an innovative environment citywide.
"I'm excited we can bring this service to some of our riders. Be it for work, entertainment or personal business, Wi-Fi allows them to stay connected while in transit and improves the overall customer experience," Patman said.
Mayor Turner said that greater access to the internet means increased access to opportunity for many Houston-area residents.
"When we first sat down with Microsoft and Metro as part of the Smart City discussions, the first thing we discussed was how can we make the Smart City initiatives inclusive for all residents. That is why connectivity for everyone, and more efficient public transit, was our priority," Mayor Turner said.
Through the Microsoft Digital Alliance, Microsoft is funding the $110,220 project including the more than 40 routers, installation and service.
“Bringing connectivity to Houston Metro riders is a step forward in the smart city journey, and Microsoft is proud to partner with the city to bring the pilot program to life,” Carr said.
Metro hopes to learn more about customer’s use of the technology, as well as identify funding and interest to expand Wi-Fi systemwide. As part of the pilot, riders are asked to provide their email address so that Metro can gather feedback on the service.
In addition to Microsoft, this public-private partnership includes Synnex Corporation, Sierra Wireless, Tracking for Less and AT&T. The pilot will run through mid-January and will be complimentary thanks to the partners.
