US Ignite is partnering Signify, formerly Philips Lighting, to launch a pilot for communities across the United States to deploy and evaluate the BrightSites technology. The nationwide opportunity comes as Fort Lauderdale, the initial pilot site, prepares for deployment of the BrightSites technology later this year.

Through the Brightening Smart Communities with Innovation Pilot Programme, communities will be able to pilot Signify’s wireless infrastructure platform.

Signify’s BrightSites technology is designed to transform traditional lighting infrastructure into reliable, low-latency, high-bandwidth communication infrastructure capable of supporting gigabit-speed wireless communication without the need for disruptive trenching.

By utilising existing lighting grids, communities can enable new smart applications — from real-time traffic monitoring to public Wi-Fi and environmental sensors with minimal installation effort.

The communities selected to participate in the Brightening Smart Communities with Innovation Pilot Program will work with US Ignite and Signify to co-design and to tailor their pilots to focus on local needs. Each pilot will run for up to six months and focus on solving a key community challenge. These might comprise expanding access to the Internet, improving public safety, enhancing transportation systems, or enabling environmental monitoring. In addition to receiving BrightSites equipment, participating communities will benefit from dedicated technical assistance, strategic guidance, and the support of US Ignite’s national network of connected communities.

The City of Fort Lauderdale, selected during an earlier round of the programme, is set to launch its pilot later this summer.

“We are proud to offer Signify BrightSites, a transformative broadband luminaire solution that redefines urban infrastructure. By turning existing streetlights into ultra-fast, gigabit-speed digital hubs, cities can now bridge the digital divide, enhance public safety, and accelerate smart city innovation without the disruption and cost of fiber trenching. With up to 80% lower deployment costs and a 95-ton per kilometer reduction in CO₂ emissions, BrightSites is not only smart, but sustainable,” said Kristene Canady, VP Business Development, Signify BrightSites. “This pilot launch marks a new era of connectivity, where every light pole becomes a gateway to opportunity. Through this unique approach we’re enabling local leaders to tackle real challenges affecting communities, like public health and safety — all while increasing connectivity and reducing operating costs.”

“Brightening Smart Communities with Innovation Pilot Program offers communities an opportune chance to shape their future using an easy-to-deploy infrastructure solution that comes with expert guidance and support,” said Domenick Lasorsa, Community Innovation Manager. “We are proud to work with Signify to help communities deploy meaningful connected solutions that improve residents’ quality of life.”