The City of Kitchener opened its first municipal innovation lab, which will be committed to development through the Internet of Things (IoT).
The Digital Kitchener Innovation Lab will leverage the city’s IoT network, created by the recently upgraded LED streetlights as the base for building smart city initiatives. The intention behind this initiative is to take complex service challenges out of city hall and into a more disruptive environment.
“The Digital Kitchener Innovation Lab is an example of our vision in action,” said Berry Vrbanovic, Mayor of Kitchener. “Earlier this year, council approved a vision for a Digital Kitchener, and the lab is one example of how we will pursue new technologies and partnerships to connect citizens in ways never imagined.”
The lab will be located at Communitech, and Kitchener plans to use this new project to create innovations for city services such as monitoring water mains, traffic conditions, streetlights, and waste containers.
“The lab team will work with city staff to investigate how smart technology can help deliver more effective and efficient city services,” said Karl Allen-Muncey, lab director of the Digital Kitchener Innovation Lab. “The possibilities are endless and we’re looking forward to exploring the opportunities IOT has to offer.”
