As a local government leader, you’ve likely heard the term “smart city” being discussed when it comes to using technology to improve services and operations. But what exactly is a smart city?
Simply put, a smart city uses current digital technologies to enhance the delivery of local government services. This generally involves integrating information and communication technologies that utilize the internet or wireless networks. Today the most common applications use IoT sensors (environmental, traffic sensors), web-based technology to deliver services (“digitalization”), video camera feeds, and elements of artificial intelligence. Many of these are stable and coming down in cost. Different municipalities, each with its unique size and demographics, are starting to integrate smart city technologies into their planning and infrastructure development. Some promote smart, sustainable, and resilient communities using datadriven decision making. Others are teaming up with tech companies and research institutions to pilot innovative solutions for challenges like traffic management and waste reduction. The size of a municipality can matter. It is also important to prioritize cost-effective tech and applications based on local needs. A focus should be on those approaches that can have a significant impact on improving services and efficiency.
Read more about the Smart City Applications in the May 2024 NJ Municipalities Magazine.
Marc Pfeiffer is the assistant director of the Bloustein Local Government Research Center