Vertical: Smart City
Application: Smart streetlights, improved coverage and capacity
Ecosystem: CircleGX, Qualcomm, Zyter
Private Network: LTE, CBRS
CircleGx, an investor-funded Wireless Internet Service Provider (WISP), is spearheading a new initiative to bring affordable broadband access to underserved communities in Dallas County, Texas. The project, named “Planted Circle,” aims to address the stark digital divide in the region, where 42% of residents lack access to broadband services.
The innovative fixed wireless broadband network will initially deploy 20 LTE CBRS cell sites across a four-square mile area in early 2022, with plans to expand to 80 sites running on 5G technology later in the year. This ambitious project is set to transform connectivity in Dallas County, supporting a wide range of applications including smart streetlights, educational technology, and efficient waste management.
The Planted Circle network is designed to be more than just an internet service provider. It aims to create a sustainable ecosystem that benefits the entire community. Pete Goodwin, founder and CEO of CircleGx, envisions innovative funding models that include promoting local businesses and offering residents broadband bill credits for shopping within the community.
One of the most striking features of the network will be the smart streetlights provided by Juganu. These lights will not only serve as Wi-Fi hotspots but will also change color during emergencies to guide first responders to those in need. This dual-purpose infrastructure exemplifies the project’s commitment to both connectivity and public safety.
In the education sector, the network promises to revolutionize classroom connectivity at an affordable rate of approximately $11 per student per month. This cost could potentially be offset by savings from other smart city initiatives, such as the planned smart trash collection system.
Sanjeet Pandit, global head of smart cities and digital transformation at Qualcomm, highlighted the impact this project will have on city residents and businesses. The collaboration leverages Qualcomm’s Smart Cities Accelerator Program and IoT Services Suite, demonstrating how public-private partnerships can drive digital transformation and deploy critical infrastructure.
Zyter’s role in the project involves deploying, managing, and operating the city’s private fixed wireless broadband network on their SmartSpaces™ Internet of Things (IoT) platform. This platform will integrate data from various IoT devices and applications, creating a unified interface that breaks down information silos.
