Smart Cities is an initiative the City of Joplin is exploring. City and community leaders would like to talk with our citizens about this and get their input during upcoming open house meetings later this month.
“Smart City planning is a proactive approach to create a viable community that is adaptable and prepared for the future,” said Troy Bolander, Director of Planning, Community Development and Neighborhood Services. “It creates efficiencies within the community because infrastructures and technology are in place for growth, or if we experience a shift in the economy, housing markets or transportation needs.”
Bolander noted that smart cities are resilient because of the collaboration and relationship-building among organizations and businesses that occurs within the community. They also create plans for natural disasters that might affect their community.
“We’ve endured a natural disaster, and we’ve learned a lot, but there is more we can do now, to help our city for the future. We’d appreciate the chance of talking with residents about this, and hearing what they think about upgrading our systems in this initiative.”
Expanded Wi-Fi is one example how a Smart City can benefit a community, its residents and businesses. With greater access to the Internet, many tasks become more efficient (or even possible for some individuals), from connecting to technology to do business, access information, apply for a license or permit, or even to complete a student’s homework. By managing and analyzing data to deliver new and improved services to its residents, a city can provide greater opportunities for local job growth. Other possibilities and efficiencies exist in a smart city, such as safer neighborhoods and improved economic opportunities.
These opportunities and more will be discussed at the Open House sessions. Several options will be available for citizens to provide their suggestions on what they see as community needs that could possibly be a part of this new initiative.
“We encourage everyone to come and learn more about Smart Cities and provide their input. Joplin has been credited for its resiliency since the May 2011 disaster, and community leaders are developing a plan to keep Joplin moving forward. We invite our citizens to join us in this effort,” said Bolander.
Meetings will be held in the last part of April and first part of May. Dates include:
Saturday, April 27
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Joplin Public Library, 1901 E. 20th Street
Tuesday, April 30
4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Bookhouse Cinema, 715 E. Broadway Street
Thursday, May 2
4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Irving Elementary School, 2901 McClelland Blvd
If residents are not able to attend, they can join the Live Stream event that can be found on the City of Joplin Facebook page. For more information, contact the City at 417-624-0820, ext. 510 or via email at cdbgdr@joplinmo.org
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