Seattle approves Smart City digital kiosks but none, for now, on Capitol Hill sidewalks

Seattle's City Council has approved a program to deploy 80 digital wayfinding kiosks throughout the city, with a focus on 30 kiosks in downtown as the first phase. Kiosks will not be installed on Capitol Hill until a Pike/Pine Business Improvement District is created. The kiosks will provide essential services such as news updates, directions, and Wi-Fi access while generating about $1 million annually from advertising. District 3 representative Joy Hollingsworth introduced an amendment to ensure that revenue from the program benefits local businesses. The council also established restrictions, including a prohibition on camera technology and a limit of 10 years for the contract with the kiosk provider, IKE Smart City.

Concerns were raised regarding the potential for visual clutter and the implications of allowing advertising on city property. However, proponents argue that the kiosks will not cost the city anything for installation or maintenance. The initiative aims to enhance urban navigation while supporting local economic interests.