Cisco and AT&T are forging a new alliance to build a framework to help cities better serve their citizens.
Announcing this on its official blog, Cisco said the partnership will be using the Internet of Things (IoT) innovations and bringing the smart cities framework to several spotlight cities across the United States of America. Communities and local universities will work together to build smart city environments. The spotlight cities and universities include Atlanta, the Georgia Institute of Technology, Chicago, and Dallas.
AT&T and its alliance members already help communities solve problems with solutions that connect utility meters, street lights and water systems. The new framework adds several new categories:
- Infrastructure – Cities are able to remotely monitor the conditions of roads, bridges, buildings, parks and other venues. Maintenance crews can identify slick roadways during freezing weather or detect bridges that may need repairs.
- Citizen Engagement – Mobile apps give people information to stay better prepared. For example, you can be notified in real time if a traffic light isn’t working on your route. You can also remotely view parking meters and reserve spaces ahead of time.
- Transportation – Digital signage lets commuters know in near real time when the next bus or train will arrive. People can rent electric bikes at stations across the city to reduce traffic.
- Public Safety – Cities can better manage traffic patterns of pedestrians at stadiums, parks, and busy intersections. Gun fire detection technology helps law enforcement know where a shooting occurred. It also helps them determine the number of people involved and rounds fired.
AT&T is also developing a new digital dashboard that gives cities a high-level look at their communities’ conditions. The Smart City Network Operation Center (SC-NOC) offers cities a dashboard view of how assets are performing in near-real time. City officials can keep tabs on power outages, water leaks, traffic issues, and more – all from one location.
via: Cisco blog