AC Transit lures riders out of their cars,
launches fleet of buses with free WI-FI

By Caitlin Cassady

May 24, 2007

Cross-bay commuters have something to look forward to in the mornings, because AC transit has officially launched its fleet of 90 buses that are outfitted with free WiFi for riders.

The 78 MCI buses that make the daily commute across the San Mateo and Dumbarton bridges to San Francisco and the Peninsula are now equipped with WiFi, according to AC Transit. The other 12 buses with WiFi are part of the Dumbarton Bridge Consortium.

These buses have special decals, and are dark green in color to make them easily recognizable for commuters, the agency reported. Each bus is equipped with an antenna and router that is tied to the bus's power system.

Riders simply enter the bus and turn on their wireless device to connect to the system.

The entire operation was made possible by a $340,000 grant from the Alameda County Congestion Management Agency. The grant pays for the equipment, installation and two years of access fees, according to the agency.

According to Cyrus Minoofar, the congestion management agency's intelligent transportations programs manager, having free WiFi on buses is a great way to lure commuters towards public transportation.

AC Transit is the only public transportation agency in northern California to offer free WiFi on buses.

Copyright © 2007 by Bay City News, Inc. -- Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited.

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