Smart City Development Examined By National League Of Cities
Source: Facility Executive on January 20, 2017
The National League of Cities (NLC) has released “Trends in Smart City Development,” a new report featuring case studies about how five cities — Philadelphia, San Francisco, Chicago, Charlotte, NC, and New Delhi, India — are implementing smart city projects from different approaches. The report also provides recommendations to help local governments consider and plan these projects.
“Cities across the country and around the world are employing exciting new technologies that leverage data to engage their residents and improve their communities,” said NLC President Matt Zone, council member, Cleveland. “City leaders are sharing the ideas and strategies that have worked to make their cities smarter and more connected. This report is a useful guide to set cities up for success with smart city initiatives.”
A “smart city” is one that has developed technological infrastructure that enables it to collect, aggregate, and analyze real-time data to improve the lives of its residents. The report suggests that any city effort should include explicit policy recommendations regarding smart infrastructure and data, a functioning administrative component, and some form of community engagement.
“Advances in technology are deeply intertwined with the evolution of cities,” said Brooks Rainwater, report co-author and director of NLC’s Center for City Solutions and Applied Research. “As the world becomes more connected with every passing day, cities will increasingly integrate smart city projects to improve public safety, drive sustainability efforts, and create equity. This report serves as a resource for local officials to help them learn and plan for the future.”