In 2017, the National Center for Smart Growth (NCSG) and the College of Information Studies (iSchool) launched a Smart Cities Initiative (SCI) at the University of Maryland to develop an institutional framework for research, education, and engagement in smart cities and urban analytics. This initiative focuses on applying smart cities technologies to critical community needs and opportunities, including Public Safety and Health, Smart Mobility, Environmental Sustainability, and Economic Innovation.
We identify research opportunities around the planning, installation, and use of smart cities technologies. The research is interdisciplinary and transsectoral, engaging multiple campus units and governmental, civic, and private sector organizations.
Community engagement is a key strength of SCI. Smart Cities themed “roundtable”* meetings have been organized for the Baltimore Avenue Corridor since January 2018 with academics, industry, local municipal leaders, and other organizational stakeholders in Prince George’s County. This roundtable has a roster of approximately 135 individuals with 35-45 participants at each session. In addition, a monthly newsletter with 400+ email addresses connects the Smart Cities Initiative to greater Maryland.
* If you are interested in participating in a Roundtable, please contact Tara Burke (tburke13@umd.edu).
