Miami and CIVIQ Smartscapes Install Communication Devices in Transit System

The city of Miami, Florida has partnered with CIVIQ Smartscapes to launch the first fully interconnected smart city ecosystem in the U.S. Over the next three months, CIVIQ plans to install and maintain up to 300 interactive digital WayPoints. The WayPoints are described as “smart city communications devices” that come with WiFi, USB quick-charging ports, and and 51 additional WiFi devices for transit stations. Miami residents will be able to access free public WiFi as well as up-to-date transportation schedules.

“These new devices and services are much more than a new way to access the internet,” said Alice N. Bravo, Miami-Dade Director of Transportation & Public Works. “Greater connectivity in the transit system means increased efficiency, less downtime, and overall better experiences for our passengers.”

The partnership also sets a new level of inter-connectivity between different Miami-Dade public services, such as transportation, public works, and public safety.  County trains and buses will soon each contain mobile WiFi networks that will provide internet access for passengers, and allow the county to better track and manage its public transportation system.

The Waypoints include technology providing interactive touchscreens, optional Emergency Customer Intercoms and LED alert notification display. As the digital displays for advertising and public service announcements can generate revenue, there is no expected costs to residents.

“Miami Dade is a great example of a municipality rethinking the real value of technology as an enabler to livable, sustainable communities,” said George Burciaga, the managing director of CIVIQ’s Global Government Development and Innovation division. “Today’s savvy leaders now have the opportunity to make decisions that create immediate benefits for the community. The result is more efficient government, a stronger community identity, and better connections for all who live, work, play, and visit the county.”