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City pitches broadband pilots, affordability hub and Wi‑Fi expansions to close digital gaps
Summary
IT Director Ron McKenzie outlined a multi-pronged approach to broadband access including a District 3 wireless 5G/LTE pilot (~$713,007), expansion of public Wi‑Fi in parks and public buildings, an online broadband resource hub, and training workshops to boost take-up among residents.
Ron McKenzie, Fort Lauderdale’s IT director, briefed the commission on options to expand broadband access, reduce digital exclusion and grow city-run Wi‑Fi capacity.
McKenzie explained capacity differences between coax, fiber and wireless and underscored how congestion and transport methods affect real‑world speeds. He said the city operates 35 public Wi‑Fi locations — many with limited bandwidth — and described an approved wireless 5G/LTE pilot in part of District 3 with a total cost of about $713,007 and an annual subscription cost of $43,368. McKenzie noted providers also offer affordability programs (Xfinity Internet Essentials, AT&T Access) and pointed to Broward County library hotspot lending as an already available resource.
Suggested next steps included creating a single, public broadband resource hub listing low‑cost plans, eligibility criteria and public Wi‑Fi locations; integrating affordability program support into community engagement events; targeted training so residents can use devices; expanding the existing city pilot to a campus‑style public Wi‑Fi service; and increasing bandwidth at parks and public buildings. Commissioners expressed support for piloting the full package and asked staff to provide timelines and training plans. McKenzie said the pilot expansion would be pursued if commissioners provide direction, and staff will return with an implementation plan and budget suggestions.
