WiFi On Embark Buses?

[zookeeper]

According to this page on the Embark website, WiFi was to be rolled out "this summer" on "all buses." I'm just curious if this has happened - or is in the process of happening? The relevant paragraph is below.

"The system-wide route changes focus on increasing the frequency of the bus routes, reducing passenger wait and travel time, and realigning routes for optimal connectivity and to better match demand. Additional improvements currently underway include new bus stop signage and technology updates that will provide real-time information on the location of buses, a new website and a user-friendly trip planner. Even more enhancements will roll out this summer including Wi-Fi on board all buses, enhanced route information at bus stops, and the start of installing more than 31 new ADA accessible bus shelters."
Bus Routes Changing System Wide - EMBARK


Thanks!

[JohnH_in_OKC]

According to this page on the Embark website, WiFi was to be rolled out "this summer" on "all buses." I'm just curious if this has happened - or is in the process of happening? The relevant paragraph is below.

"The system-wide route changes focus on increasing the frequency of the bus routes, reducing passenger wait and travel time, and realigning routes for optimal connectivity and to better match demand. Additional improvements currently underway include new bus stop signage and technology updates that will provide real-time information on the location of buses, a new website and a user-friendly trip planner. Even more enhancements will roll out this summer including Wi-Fi on board all buses, enhanced route information at bus stops, and the start of installing more than 31 new ADA accessible bus shelters."
Bus Routes Changing System Wide - EMBARK


Thanks!

I've just about completed my annual 30 pass on the EMBARK bus system. (I'm retired & this is the 5th year I've purchased a 30 day pass.) I checked for WiFi on almost every bus I rode & discovered that less than 10% of the buses are WiFi equipped in my estimation. The transit center still is not WiFi enabled. I was told by a bus driver that all buses are scheduled to be upgraded to WiFi service, but the system is still in the "testing mode".

When WiFi is enabled on the buses, I noticed almost everyone with cell phones were using them. Many of the riders cannot afford carrier data plans & they depend solely on WiFi for Internet access. Riders often get Lifeline plans for their cell phones which do not include any data service.

Note to EMBARK bus service: Please setup WIFI from 4G enabled hotspot devices which are capable of 801.11ac distribution so that it maximizes as many users as possible that can utilize WiFi service on each bus.

[zookeeper]

Thanks for the update, John. I've been curious about this as it seems like it would be a huge draw to get younger people on the system.

[shawnw]

what about the bus _station_? anybody know if it has wifi?

[zookeeper]

what about the bus _station_? anybody know if it has wifi?

John, in his post, said they don't even have it at the Transit Center. We're talking local Embark bus service...not sure if you're thinking the same.

[shawnw]

Oops, I just missed it, sorry

[JohnH_in_OKC]

EMBARK Executives: After WiFi is implemented on our EMBARK bus system, it'll be time to start accepting credit cards, debit cards & smartphone payments. I was amazed that the downtown transit center did not accept credit cards or debit cards for payment. The transit center and every bus should be equipped to allow customers to use their debit cards, credit cards & phone payments from its riders. If you want to develop more upscale riders, you must, at the very least, start accepting debit cards & credit cards (with encryption since open WiFi will be implemented on our buses).

Here is an article from Citylab on the needed changes the Smartphone should offer transportation users:

The Most Important Transportation Innovation of the Decade Is the Smartphone

I just discovered the Citylab website & I bookmarked it. I plan on reading it often. Those interested in making OKC a better place should bookmark it also.

[JohnH_in_OKC]

After WiFi is implemented on our EMBARK bus system, it'll be time to start accepting credit cards, debit cards & smartphone payments. I was amazed that the downtown transit center did not accept credit cards or debit cards for payment. The transit center and every bus should be equipped to allow customers to use their debit cards, credit cards & phone payments from its riders. If you want to develop more upscale riders, you must, at the very least, start accepting debit cards & credit cards (with encryption since open WiFi will be implemented on our buses).

I made a suggestion to EMBARK by pasting the above request into their online suggestion box. Here is their response:

"Dear John,

Your request # 1016 has been resolved with the resolution:
John,

Thank you for visiting EMBARK's website. We are working on accepting credit
cards and online payments for passes. This will be in the near future. Please
visit our website often to see the latest news for EMBARK.

Your comments, concerns, and suggestions are very valuable to us and we
appreciate you taking the time to contact us.

Thank you for using public transportation and using EMBARK.

Best regards,

Customer Relations"

[LetsTalkTransit]

Hi all,

EMBARK is currently working on bids to for the installation of WIFI on buses. Due to the initial expense, and the ongoing monthly costs, it will not be available on all buses immediately. We are aiming for installation in early 2015 if not sooner.

^ms