Petco Park Delivers Touchless Fan Experience with Next Generation Wireless Connectivity
Connectivity has never been so important. No matter the venue, next generation mobile networks are essential for elevating fan experiences and simplifying operations. While solutions like Wi-Fi and cellular distributed antenna systems (DAS) have long been the go-to for mobile usage at stadiums and arenas, new wireless technologies have been introduced to help accommodate skyrocketing demands of the 5G era. Private networks are the latest example of this.
Private networks are new wireless solutions that provide sports and entertainment venues with a dedicated, secure network that is custom-designed to power operational 5G use cases—from contactless concessions to cashless payment to biometrics and robotic cleaning. Moving operational traffic off public networks brings greater flexibility to connect more intelligent devices and power solutions such as security management, video analytics, touchless engagement, smart utilities and more. Better yet, private networks are designed to work alongside existing neutral host DAS and Wi-Fi networks for a fully converged stadium experience.
The San Diego Padres are leading the pack with private networks. They recently teamed up with Boingo Wireless, a leading 5G connectivity provider for major league sports venues, to launch a private network to reliably power mobile applications and make the fan experience more convenient.
Now live, the 5G-ready network expands wireless coverage to Gallagher Square—a community gathering space inside Petco Park—and is used by staff to process cash-free payments, contactless concessions and mobile ticketing. The outdoor 2.8-acre space has a capacity of more than 14,000 fans. It has committed to hosting at least eight national acts annually and is the first outdoor venue of its kind to be included inside a Major League Baseball ballpark.
Petco Park staffers rely on the network using iPads to run operational applications for safe, convenient, touchless fan services.
“Professional sports teams are prioritizing next generation connectivity to elevate gameday experiences and overcome operational hurdles,” said Boingo CEO Mike Finley. “Our private network solutions give stadiums like Petco Park seamless and secure wireless coverage to connect mobile operations and bring the fan experience into the 5G era. Boingo is thrilled to add the Padres to our roster and do our part to enable a fully connected ballpark.”
Stadiums and other large venues can leverage Boingo Private Networks to move operational traffic off public networks to connect more devices and reduce congestion. Venues have direct control over the network’s wireless coverage, location, quality and security with dedicated bandwidth that is closed off from outside traffic. The networks offer rich data insights and are designed to facilitate use cases such as new health and safety protocols, touchless engagement, security operations, prepay parking and more.
“On gameday, the Padres have over 1,000 staffers running Petco Park,” said Padres CEO Erik Greupner. “To keep mobile operations running smoothly, we desired a standalone, closed network. Boingo checked every box. Their private network enables us to place cellular coverage exactly where we need it—in Gallagher Square—and cater to our mobile fanbase. This flexibility combined with data insights and security gives our organization a powerful wireless tool to deliver the great experience Padres fans expect.”
The Boingo Private Network at Petco Park leverages Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) spectrum and operates alongside the stadium’s public network making it possible to:
Meet fan demands with:
- Contactless concessions
- Expanded health and safety protocols
- Touchless ticketing
- Prepay parking
Enhance operations with:
- Real-time communication
- Cash-free environment
- Enhanced security
- Increased revenue and retention opportunities
- Reduced cost to deploy venue-wide wireless for operations
The immediate connectivity need at Petco Park’s Gallagher Square is a prime example of network technology driving innovation, acting as the catalyst to overcome operational challenges and subsequently generating added cashflow.
To learn more about Boingo Private Networks visit www.boingo.com/private-networks.