Source: Tom's Guide US | Keywords: Wi-Fi, Bus, Stop, San, Francisco | Themes: The Internet, Networking
San Francisco plans to construct bus stops with built-in Wi-Fi routers to create a city-wide Internet network.
Popular Mechanics is reporting that the city of San Francisco recently unveiled a prototype bus stop that looks and (perhaps) feels like a prop yanked straight out of science fiction movies. Although the diagram doesn't sport neon lights, a robotic bartender or some other out-of-this world feature, the design will apparently utilize the sun's energy using a solar panel roof.
So why do these new bus stops need power? According to PM, these future street shelters will have the ability to offer Wi-Fi hotspots and interactive information panels. The unused power left over from consumer consumption--an estimated 43,000 kilowatt-hours per year--will thus be pumped directly into the city's power grid. The shelter itself will be lit by LEDs that will consume 74.4 watts, far more efficient than current shelters using fluorescent lighting.
PM also said that Clear Channel Outdoor signed an installation and maintenance contract with the city to build the new bus stops, and will cost an estimated $30,000 a piece to construct. Thanks to the built-in Wi-Fi routers, each bus stop will comprise a city-wide wireless Internet network, although there was no mention if the city's access will be free, or will be subscription-based to generate local revenue.
The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency plans to have 360 new bus stops up and running by 2013.
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hmm, do i want to use my new shiny mbp while im waiting for the bus in the tenderloin? i rather not.
A good move for a city whose budget deficit is projected to reach $750 million in 2011.
That's pretty awesome.
Now just put Wi-Fi on all of the buses.
Smart! A simple and effective way to spread Wi-Fi through out a major city.
So now all the homos there can browse the gay porn sites easier. Lol San Fran should just drop off in the ocean.
The sun hardly shines in SF. Is it really going to produce enuf power???
Its a great idea except "will cost an estimated $30,000 a piece to construct."
But seriously... if it encourages mass transit why not give er a go?
I read someone where that SF was working on city wide wifi years ago, I guess this is just the next step.
I hope they make the routers hacker-proof. It's bad enough that hackers can drive by and steal your personal information if you have chips in your passport or credit cards.
I really don't see the point in this. I can go into a coffee shop if I want to use the internet. But if I sit at a bus stop, 9 times out of 10 I am not there long enough to even use the internet.
I think this is a waste of money.
"I really don't see the point in this. I can go into a coffee shop if I want to use the internet. But if I sit at a bus stop, 9 times out of 10 I am not there long enough to even use the internet."
- wisdom_learner
Wait until you see the new bus schedule. :^)