Local governments are always looking for ways to better serve residents. From apps that increase civic engagement to software that helps control traffic patterns, "urban tech" seems to be the next wave in this effort. But what does that mean? Here are the definitions of urban tech from several California localities:
Oakland
"'Urban tech' seems to be the new phrase on the scene that describes the development of technologies that support the management of cities, often combining civic tech and social entrepreneurship," said Michael Hunt, a spokesman for the city of Oakland.
The areas that see the most urban tech effort include transportation, public safety and housing, Hunt said.
"These are often industries that are impacted by local regulation and policy. I’m hearing from many of my trusted colleagues that this is the new term for strategies driving ‘smart cities,’” Hunt said.
Davis
Davis has defined its urban tech as a tool to minimize the digital divide. More access to broadband will increase innovation, Chief Innovation Officer Diane Parro told Techwire.
"As other jurisdictions in the region can tell you, many of our communities have a much higher need than is being fulfilled, so the infrastructure needs are our priority," Parro wrote in an email.
Several civic innovation groups have gotten involved in the effort, including Davis Gig.
The city of Davis will complete a feasibility study for citywide fiber optic by fall.
Los Angeles County
The county has begun using tracking technology to determine if a hiker is lost and help find them if they are in crisis. The parks have sensors that communicate with hikers' phones. The county is also looking at using wearable tech — bracelets or necklaces — to monitor swimmers' safety in the county's swimming pools. A cellphone app would alert a lifeguard or a parent when a child is in danger.
Similarly, sensors have helped manage tree health in the county's parks. If a tree receives too much water or experiences extreme weather, it is monitored from a dashboard. If it falls, services can be sent out immediately, saving the county time and money.
Lafayette
The city has begun using data and software to control traffic patterns. Commuter data was gathered through surveys, and traffic patterns were adjusted accordingly, using information from sensors to communicate with traffic lights and change the flow of vehicles to make travel through the city more efficient.
