City Council voted to authorize the city manager to negotiate and execute agreements with iKe Smart City LLC to design, install, operate and maintain up to 30 interactive digital kiosks in Charlotte public rights-of-way under a pilot program presented Oct. 27.

The kiosks are freestanding, illuminated touch-screen wayfinding and information units that include advertising inventory, city/community content, optional public-safety integrations (911 call button, security cameras) and free Wi-Fi. The vendor said 12.5% of time will be reserved for city and community content and that a community outreach team will provide reduced-cost or free advertising to small and local businesses. Councilmembers emphasized equity, neighborhood distribution and public-safety features; staff said locations will be determined in coordination with the corridors-of-opportunity program, municipal service districts (MSDs) and council.

Randall Systrunk (iKe Smart City) told council the system supports community advertising and can integrate optional 911 call buttons and security cameras. Brandon Brazil (CDOT) explained the ordinance changes to allow interactive wayfinding kiosks by amending sign code provisions so the devices are an explicit exception for certain lighting and interactivity rules. South End stakeholders including Michael Smith made a public comment supporting the kiosks as a wayfinding and visitor-engagement tool for transit-oriented neighborhoods.

Council emphasized that the program is at no upfront cost to the city and will generate revenue (staff and council referenced approximately $8,000 per kiosk in initial projections) while reserving time for city and community messages. Council directed staff to proceed with negotiation and the agreement.

"These digital kiosks are the right solution," Michael Smith said on behalf of South End stakeholders. "They provide dynamic communications for residents, businesses, shoppers, and visitors."