Houston METRO adds Wi-Fi to select light-rail lines

Rail News Home Passenger Rail 10/16/2019 Rail News: Passenger Rail
On Oct. 14, Houston METRO Chair Carrin Patman announced the launch of a Wi-Fi pilot program.Photo – Houston METRO

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority of Harris County (METRO) earlier this week launched a pilot program to provide free Wi-Fi access to riders on the Green and Purple light-rail lines.

Wi-Fi will also be available on select bus routes until mid-January 2020. The rail and bus routes were chosen because of their proximity to universities and other schools, METRO officials said in a press release.

Through the pilot, METRO officials hope to learn more about customer use of the technology, as well as identify funding and interest to expand Wi-Fi systemwide. 

The program is part of Houston's Smart City initiative to foster an innovative environment in partnership with Microsoft, Synnex Corp., Sierra Wireless, Tracking for Less and AT&T.  

Microsoft is funding the $110,220 Wi-Fi project, which includes more than 40 routers, installation and service.