Internet of Things

Blog #9

Smart Cities & IoT

A smart city uses technology to enhance the quality of life for residents. Pete Buttigieg, U.S. Secretary of Transportation, defines the infrastructure as technology centered, but "not about technology for its own sake" (Hawkins, 2023). An example is the integration of IoT devices, which can provide real time data to improve infrastructure like traffic lights, or living conditions like air/water quality. 

The Welding Institute defines how smart sensors collect, analyze, and communicate data to city planners to improve configurations. Buttigieg says "The idea is to make sure that technology unfolds in ways that make us all better off" (Hawkins, 2023). 

Chico could also implement this technology at a smaller scale. Smart sensors in Chico would allow the city to collect enhanced traffic data, including train times, to improve traffic flow. Another use would be public wifi improvement, especially on campus. Data could be collected on hotspots and high-usage times, and wifi extensions could be added accordingly. 

Sources

Hawkins, A. J. (2023, March 22). Pete Buttigieg still believes in smart cities. The Verge. https://www.theverge.com/2023/3/22/23650463/pete-buttigieg-interview-usdot-smart-city-grant-tech

What is a Smart City? – Definition and Examples. (2024). TWI Global. https://www.twi-global.com/technical-knowledge/faqs/what-is-a-smart-city#SmartCityFeatures