Royal Oak Adds Thrones, aka Smart Restrooms, for Six Month Trial
(Crystal A. Proxmire, July 2, 2025)
Royal Oak, MI – A trio of new toilets are gracing Royal Oak as the city conducts a six-month trial of “Throne” smart restrooms.
The blue and white “Thrones”, which are similar to port-a-potties but larger, are located at Centennial Commons Park, Lawson Park, and the Farmers Market. The thrones are solar operated, and require use of a cell phone to enter. Visitors can scan the QR code or text “Throne” to the number posted on the unit. Or they can download the Throne app. Those without phones can use a free tap card, available at the Royal Oak Library. Once the doors are unlocked, the visitor has ten minutes to take care of business before the doors unlock again. Inside visitors can enjoy the toilet, running-water sink, paper towels, and ventilation system. The facilities are wheelchair accessible, climate controlled, and they have a baby-changing station.
According to the City of Royal Oak website, the time limit “helps ensure that Thrones remain available as a shared community resource. Data shows the average Throne visit takes about 3.5 minutes, so 10 minutes provides ample time for most users while preventing extended stays that could limit access for others. This time limit is an important feature that helps prevent misuse and ensures everyone in the community has fair access when they need it. It also serves an important safety function: if someone experiences a medical emergency inside, they can be seen and helped once the door opens.”
Royal Oak Commissioner Brandon Kolo has been a proponent of the system, stating “Royal Oak is always working to improve the day-to-day experience for residents and visitors. We identified a real gap in access to clean, reliable public restrooms in some of our busiest outdoor spaces. This pilot gives us a chance to respond directly to community needs—especially for families, older adults, and people who wish to enjoy our spaces without having to cut their visits short.”
Department of Public Services Director Kevin Yee recommended the six month trial program, at a cost of $97,200, as a way to test the usage of restroom facilities before investing in permanent structures in those locations.
The Lawson Park throne will provide “convenient restroom access for athletes, families, and park visitors during busy weekend activities,” Yee said in his report to the City Commission.
“Centennial Commons is a central gathering space designed for placemaking and public recreation. It is home to popular features like a water cannon, play hill, and summer concerts. This area also serves a diverse user base, including visitors to the Royal Oak Public Library and Henry Ford Health’s downtown medical center,” Yee wrote. The benefits are “enhanced restroom access for families, seniors, and general park visitors, supporting the park’s role as a community hub.”
The Farmers Market also seemed an obvious choice. “Celebrating its 100th anniversary, the Farmers Market is a year-round destination hosting weekly and special events,” he wrote. “These events attract significant crowds, and additional restroom facilities can enhance the visitor experience.” The throne will provide “improved restroom access during peak market events, providing insight before any permanent restroom investments are considered”
The Royal Oak Library was a little more succinct with their remarks, commenting on Facebook, “We’re FLUSH with excitement.”
Ann Arbor is among the cities that have already had Thrones installed.
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