Cradlepoint, experts in cloud-delivered LTE and 5G wireless solutions is working with Gloucestershire County Council to enhance the Park & Ride at Arle Court in Cheltenham experience for commuters, passengers, and staff.
Through Cradlepoint's 5G solutions, the council has eliminated connectivity challenges, and introduced new possibilities for better services, while providing a greener transportation solution.
Gloucestershire County Council's Park & Ride service was challenged by reduced parking space, due to increased development in the area, causing congestion and unauthorised parking. To tackle this, a QR code-based system was introduced for bus passengers, tackling parking abuse and congestion’s environmental impact.
However, 4G dongle connectivity used to power the QR code-based system, frequently disconnected every 20 minutes, causing delays and frustration for drivers and passengers. In response, Gloucestershire County Council Park & Ride partnered with Cradlepoint, installing the R1900 router and Panorama Antenna within the bus. Ignition Sensing was configured to ensure continuous connectivity during stops, eliminating the need for frequent connectivity reboots. This ruggedised router ensures optimal performance, even in extreme weather conditions. With gigabit LTE and second-generation 5G architecture, it delivers speeds of up to 1Gbps.
Andrew Burford, Parking Procurement & Contract Manager, Parking Services at Gloucestershire County Council said, "Cradlepoint’s solution was a game-changer for us. It has helped us to transform the way we manage our Park & Ride’s service by making our operations run far more efficiently. The 5G network has eliminated the persistent connectivity challenges we used to face, and we’re now able to deliver hassle-free services for our customers. Beyond the technical solution, what really struck us was the exceptional after-sales support we were offered. Cradlepoint’s commitment to us is really what made them stand out."
With its QR code connectivity improved and disconnections eliminated, Gloucestershire County Council Park & Ride has curbed parking abuse, and enhanced enforcement capabilities and customer satisfaction. Drivers have embraced the solution, and passengers can enjoy an uninterrupted experience, free from connectivity issues. The reduction in non-permitted parking and congestion contributes to cleaner air, decreased greenhouse gas emissions, and a more sustainable urban transportation network.
Steven Winter, Public Sector Regional Sales Manager at Cradlepoint added, “Gloucestershire County Council Park & Ride's use of Cradlepoint’s technology demonstrates the impact of seamless connectivity on public transportation and its knock-on effect on improving sustainability efforts. We are thrilled to have played a pivotal role in enhancing the service and reducing the impact on the environment.”
