ANNOUNCEMENT! As of June 1, 2023, we are now the Capital Region Transportation Council.    Learn more

Smart Communities

What is a "Smart City?" 

A “smart community” is a term used to describe a community that applies technologically enabled devices or systems to help the city perform more efficiently. The “smart city” framework is an extensive strategy that can address the needs of a city by leveraging different technologies. Today, most cities and many smaller municipalities use smart strategies or communicate with the public through web-based applications. More advanced smart technology can build on previous technology. In considering expanding the capabilities of the municipalities within the Capital Region, several considerations will drive the direction of the development of “smart technology.”
 
The Transportation Council works with municipalities to identify these technologies and strategies that can be integrated into local and regional transportation networks to increase efficiency and safety, expand access and affordability, and improve how users engage with the transportation system. 
 "A Smart City is a designation given to a city that incorporates information and communication technologies to enhance the quality and performance of urban services such as energy, transportation and utilities in order to reduce resource consumption, wastage and overall costs. The overarching aim of a Smart City is to enhance the quality of living for its citizens through smart technology." - Technopedia 
“Integrated, first-of-its-kind smart transportation systems that use data, applications, and technology to help people and goods move more quickly, cheaply, and efficiently.” - USDOT on Smart Cities