What Will KC’s Partnership with Cisco Look Like?

May 28, 2014

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By : James Hart

Last week, Cisco and the City of Kansas City, Mo., signed a letter of intent to make KC one of Cisco’s Smart+Connected communities.

Under its Smart+Connected division, the company has been developing solutions that apply technology to municipal problems like traffic jams and parking tickets. For example, Cisco has created a system that will let users find the nearest open parking spot with a smartphone app. Traffic cops can spot illegal parkers via video feeds.

Experts say it’s a huge get for our community, but what exactly will the finished product look like here?

A more detailed plan will be released at the end of the month, along with a list of pilot projects, but here’s what we know so far.

The project will complement the new streetcar line that is being built downtown.

One of the goals is to make it easier for the average citizen to use city services and access city information through mobile apps and electronic kiosks.

Street lighting and surveillance cameras could be made “smarter” as a result of Cisco’s work.

And maybe most importantly, organizers want startups to be able to develop new products and solutions that will run on the new system.

“Cisco’s investment is further proof that Kansas City is at the forefront of technological advancement,” Mayor Sly James said in a press release.

“This joint effort will connect our visitors and residents with our City’s services and information like never before. In addition, entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to build their own unique, innovative applications to enhance the public’s experience. Put simply, this is a win-win for everyone and furthers our efforts to be the most entrepreneurial city in the nation.”