Fort Lauderdale proposes broadband pilots, park Wi‑Fi and more cameras to support safety and digital access

Fort Lauderdale’s IT director proposed a layered approach to digital access and public‑safety technology, combining targeted pilot projects, expanded public Wi‑Fi and camera installations in high‑need areas.

Ron McKenzie, IT Director, explained differences between coax, fiber and MiFi, and said the city operates 35 public Wi‑Fi locations with limited bandwidth. He described an 8x8 wireless pilot previously approved for part of District 3 and cited the pilot cost as "$713,007 and 61, inclusive of an annual annual subscription cost of 43,368." McKenzie recommended a unified broadband resource hub listing low‑cost plans and public Wi‑Fi locations, training for residents on device and network use, expansion of successful pilots to campus‑style coverage, and increased park and building bandwidth.

Commissioners also pressed for faster camera installations in downtown and other hotspots. Chief Bill Schultz confirmed some city camera footage has already supported investigations and said new cameras funded in last year’s budget are in procurement and installation, with initial units expected in the coming weeks. Staff said IT and police are coordinating on camera image quality and location priorities and will update the commission on an installation timeline and operational protocols.

Commissioners emphasized pairing connectivity upgrades with community training and outreach, and asked staff to prepare one‑page summaries of proposed investments and timelines for public dissemination.