Smart Cities

Smart City

smart cities integrate technology, community, and nature, not just deploying gadgets or data systems

planners should focus on how technology advances sustainability, livability, and equity

“how does technology serve community goals?”

Smart Cities or Surveillance Cities?

smart city enthusiasm has shifted as people question whether urban tech visions may become surveillance systems

the toronto sidewalk labs proposal was an example of concerns about data collection, privacy, and commercialization of public-space data

the smart city industry depends on large-scale data collection, which can create both public benefits and major governance concerns

Why Planners Matter

smart city projects are run from mayoral offices, tech offices or economic dev depts rather than planning departments

planners are uniquely positioned to connect residents and policy makers to frame projects around community needs

Equity, Data Value, and Public Interest

Georgie Tech professor Jennifer Clark argues that smart city deployment is uneven and raises the question of who benefits and who is left behind

cities may surrender valuable resident data too easily in exchange for “free” infrastructure or services

Digital Twins

a digital twin is a living digital replica of a city

it is continuously updated with real-time data and analytics

it links human systems, infrastructure systems, and tech systems

digital twins are designed to unify different data sources into one holistic environmental for hyperlocal decision-making

Digital Twins Stakeholder Engagement Potential

can enable local gov, industry and residents to participate in proactive governance and planning

interactive modules such as location-specific tagging and feedback tools

The Role of Planners in Smart Cities

planners have an expanding set of tools, skills, and methods for effective planning

planners should see innovative tech as opportunities for improve quality of life for all