CapMetro Launches Mobile Hotspot Program

CapMetro and AISD team up to bring Wi-Fi to Central Texas students.

AUSTIN, Texas - CapMetro has partnered with AISD to provide Wi-Fi hotspots to students living in neighborhoods with the greatest need. The goal of this program is to give students internet access to work on assignments and finish homework.

AISD has been providing Wi-Fi hotspots on their school buses since early April. Every weekday, 110 district buses provide internet access to students at multiple locations from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. CapMetro is now sending MetroAccess vehicles to locations from 2 to 8 p.m. to supplement the AISD service times.

MetroAccess vehicles were chosen for this program since the Wi-Fi remains accessible for eight hours after the engine is turned off. During the service times, students can access CapMetro Wi-Fi from their school devices to work on assignments. Vehicles are placed strategically around apartment complexes in order to give students the opportunity to study from the comfort of their homes. No one is allowed on the buses in order to promote social distancing.

CapMetro is working with AISD to offer Wi-Fi hotspots to as many areas as possible. The transit agency is also reaching out to other school districts to see if this service is needed. At this time, CapMetro vehicles will be at the following locations on weekdays from 2 to 8 p.m.:

• Springdale Gardens: 1054 Springdale Rd. (starting May 8)
• East Austin College Prep: 5800 E. MLK Blvd. (starting May 11)

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MEDIA CONTACT:
Jenna Maxfield, 512-592-2171
CCR-Communications@capmetro.org