Smart Cities: What Really Makes Them Smart?

Engineering / Member Firms

February 10, 2020

Smart Cities: What Really Makes Them Smart?

By Jim Barbaresso

Recently, I had the pleasure of taking part in the Intelligent Transport Systems World Congress in Singapore, where leaders from around the world gathered to discuss the future of mobility. My presentation – Emerging Mobility Solutions and Smart Cities – was among many that explored vital mobility topics, from technology innovation to data management to sustainability to many others. But, by the conference’s end, one burning question had yet to be answered: What makes a smart city – smart?

As the U.S. population grows increasingly urban, city transportation leaders must move quickly to optimize their transport systems so that residents continue to enjoy economic opportunity, security and a high quality of life. These demographic shifts will demand “smart city” strategies, but how can leaders get the process moving? What can they learn from cities that are overcoming inertia or resistance to move into the future with the necessary velocity?

To read the rest of the article in American City and County magazine, click here.

Jim Barbaresso is National Practice Leader for Intelligent Transportation and Emerging Mobility Solutions at HNTB Corporation.

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