Public transit agencies across the U.S. are facing a challenge: how to modernize their services while maintaining financial sustainability. Riders increasingly expect connectivity, convenience, and an enhanced experience while on board, but budgets are tight, and large-scale technology investments can be difficult to justify.
Enter Kajeet Transit, a groundbreaking solution that is helping transit agencies provide free, reliable Wi-Fi and dynamic digital advertising screens—all at no upfront cost. This innovative model is not just about adding Wi-Fi; it’s about creating a self-sustaining system where advertising revenue funds the service, benefiting both passengers and local businesses.
A Case Study in Innovation: The Long Beach Transit Pilot
Long Beach Transit (LBT) is at the forefront of this movement. What started as a simple idea—a way to engage riders with digital storytelling—quickly evolved into something much bigger. Thanks to local entrepreneur Andrew Galli’s initiative and Kajeet’s expertise, LBT has rolled out a first-of-its-kind program integrating Wi-Fi access and digital screens on buses.
The results? A win-win-win—for riders, transit agencies, and businesses.
Watch this video of Mike Gold, Executive Director/VP of Customer Relations and Communications at Long Beach Transit, talking about the Kajeet Transit pilot in his own words.
Enhancing the Rider Experience with Wi-Fi Connectivity
Public transit serves a diverse ridership. Students, workers, and residents alike rely on LBT for daily transportation. For many, connectivity is a necessity, not a luxury.
By offering onboard Wi-Fi, LBT is addressing a critical digital equity issue. Many riders have limited data plans and struggle to stay connected on the go. Whether it’s checking work emails, completing homework, or simply staying entertained during commutes, reliable internet access transforms the passenger experience.
LBT saw immediate engagement:
✅ 400 unique users tested the Wi-Fi system on just two pilot buses.
✅ The program quickly expanded to 25 buses, and in a matter of weeks, over 2,100 unique riders had logged in.
✅ The service has been seamless and reliable, with zero reported complaints.
The best part? No initial capital investment was required from LBT—making this a cost-effective and sustainable approach to modernizing transit.
Digital Screens: A Game-Changer for Communication and Revenue
In addition to Wi-Fi, the Kajeet Transit solution partners with MessagePoint Media to integrate large digital screens inside buses. These screens are more than just advertising platforms—they serve as real-time communication tools for both transit agencies and the community.
1. Real-Time Passenger Communication
Transit disruptions are inevitable—whether due to road closures, weather events, or system changes. With digital screens, LBT can push instant updates to passengers about:
🚧 Route detours and service alerts
📢 Public safety announcements
🌎 Community events and local news
This direct, real-time communication helps transit agencies provide better service, keeping riders informed without the need for mobile apps or outside notifications.
2. Sustainable Revenue Through Advertising
One of the biggest hurdles for transit agencies considering Wi-Fi is cost. But LBT’s model proves that Wi-Fi doesn’t have to be a financial burden—it can be an asset.
LBT’s approach leverages advertising dollars to support the service, making it sustainable in the long run. Here’s how:
📌 National brands can advertise, generating strong revenue streams.
📌 Local businesses get access to affordable, highly targeted advertising.
📌 Business associations can pool funds to maximize ad exposure.
For small businesses that can’t afford traditional TV, radio, or print ads, this presents a cost-effective marketing opportunity with a captive audience—riders who spend 30+ minutes on the bus, engaging with the screen.
This advertiser-backed model ensures that transit agencies don’t have to absorb the costs of providing a valuable passenger amenity.
Scaling the Model: What’s Next for LBT and Kajeet Transit?
LBT has committed to a year-long pilot to refine the program and maximize its potential. The goal? Expand Wi-Fi and digital screens across its 250-bus fleet.
The key factors in scaling include:
📊 Analyzing rider engagement—how often Wi-Fi is used and what passengers say about the service.
💰 Growing ad revenue—ensuring sustainable funding.
📈 Developing a replicable model—so other transit agencies can easily adopt this solution.
As LBT’s Executive Director Mike Gold puts it:
"We’re charting a path here that’s been uncharted. And the more agencies that get into this, the better we all do. This rising tide lifts all boats—or buses, in this case."
Why Transit Agencies Nationwide Should Consider Kajeet
For transit directors across the U.S., LBT’s experience demonstrates that Kajeet’s Wi-Fi + digital screen solution is:
✔ No-risk: With the revenues from advertising, transit agencies can quickly provide a revenue-positive enhanced rider experience.
✔ Sustainable: Advertising revenue funds the service long-term, reducing overall agency costs overall.
✔ Scalable: Works for fleets big and small.
✔ Customer-friendly: Enhances the rider experience, making transit more appealing.
✔ Community-driven: Supports local businesses and fosters engagement.
In an era of tight budgets and rising passenger expectations, Kajeet offers an innovative, cost-effective way to bring public transit into the digital age—while ensuring financial sustainability.
The question for transit leaders isn’t whether they should explore this solution, it’s when -- and if Long Beach Transit can do it, so can you. Let’s modernize transit together.
Learn more about Kajeet Transit and how your agency can get started today. 🚍💡
