This article is from the Spring 2021 issue of the Inmotion stakeholder newsletter. Subscribe here for email notifications when the new issue of Inmotion publishes online. Find the latest issues of Inmotion online at DART.org/publications.
DART riders soon will see interactive kiosks at more rail stations and bus transfer facilities.
Contractors have installed kiosks at 43 customer facilities as of March 1. Crews are in the process of installing units at 33 stations, which should be completed later this year. An additional 16 locations are in site review and planning.Interactive tools create customized content
Beyond digital signage, the kiosks display rail and bus schedules, offer wayfinding information and feature localized content. Categories range from nearby restaurants, shopping and entertainment venues to medical facilities and government offices. Riders can use the trip-planning feature to get transit or walking instructions and then send those directions to their smartphones.
The software can translate information into nine languages, and the customer interface complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Additionally, each unit includes security cameras, can broadcast emergency notifications, and soon will offer 5G connectivity, as well as public Wi-Fi to riders.
Partnerships expand customer resources
DART signed a master lease agreement with LD Flexgrid Dallas LLC - a joint venture of Landmark Infrastructure Partners LP and Smart City Media - for the design, installation and support of the interactive digital kiosks.
The project also includes installation of cell tower facilities on DART property and the addition of cellular service in the rail tunnel between the Mockingbird and Pearl/Arts District stations. In return, the LD Flexgrid Dallas partners will generate income from advertising on the kiosks' large display monitors and from cell tower leases to pay for the capital and operating costs.