The Fort Pierce Utilities Authority (FPUA) held a meeting on February 18, 2025, to discuss the revised memorandum of understanding (MOU) for the Downtown Smart City Initiative. FPUA Manager Jason Mittler presented the final amendment, which aims to enhance smart city features in downtown Fort Pierce, including the installation of fiber optics and free public Wi-Fi.

Originally signed on May 3, 2021, the MOU included plans for smart poles. However, after further evaluation, the decision was made to remove the smart poles and instead install four smart kiosks. Due to challenges in reaching a contract agreement with the kiosk vendor, the focus shifted to expanding fiber and Wi-Fi coverage throughout downtown. The revised plan extends fiber infrastructure from Orange Avenue to Citrus Avenue and Wi-Fi access from Riverwalk to the Manatee Center and Marina Square.

The fiber expansion was completed in September 2024, and upon approval of the amended MOU, the installation of Wi-Fi at Riverwalk is expected by March 2025. Board members raised questions regarding the budget implications of this change, confirming that no additional funds would be required as the budget for the kiosks would be redirected to the Wi-Fi expansion.

Mittler emphasized that the initiative aims to provide free public Wi-Fi in areas where community events are frequently held, enhancing connectivity for residents and visitors. He noted that the wireless network could also support additional smart city services, such as public safety cameras.

Discussion among board members highlighted the disappointment over the absence of kiosks, which were initially intended to provide information about local events and services. Mittler acknowledged the need for a digital strategy to engage the community and explore alternative solutions, such as mobile applications that could serve similar functions.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of collaboration among city partners to maximize the potential of the smart city infrastructure. The board expressed optimism about future developments and the possibility of revisiting the kiosk concept as part of ongoing discussions about enhancing downtown Fort Pierce.