US CTO: Public input, flexibility key to successfully regulating AI

The White House unveiled 10 principles to guide federal regulation of AI technologies and applications, a move that U.S. Chief Technology Officer Michael Kratsios called "a very, very big step for both the U.S. and the world."

By Kristin Musulin • Jan. 9, 2020

USDOT unveils AV 4.0 report

The autonomous vehicle plan puts a renewed focus on safety, following recent criticism from federal agencies and transportation organizations.

By Kristin Musulin • Jan. 8, 2020

How GIS could create a 'smarter way of governing'

Former Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley told Smart Cities Dive mapping increases transparency and helps meet goals, while also building trust.

By Chris Teale • Jan. 8, 2020

Postmates, Uber challenge AB-5 in suit

The companies claimed they "can establish that app-based independent service providers are not employees under the ABC test."

By Jennifer Carsen • Jan. 7, 2020

The smart city conferences to get excited about in 2020

As you prepare for this year's trade shows and summits, check out Smart Cities Dive's list for those likely to feature enticing discussions and out-of-this-world products.

By Chris Teale • Jan. 3, 2020

Corporate 'head tax' takes effect in Google's hometown

Businesses in Mountain View, CA will pay a flat operational fee plus an additional $5 to $150 per employee, with the largest companies paying the most.

By Katie Pyzyk • Jan. 3, 2020

Chicago IT department doesn't adhere to best practices: audit

Projects cost more, take more time and don't provide the promised public benefits without the right processes in place, the audit says.

By Katie Pyzyk • Jan. 2, 2020

New York Gov. Cuomo to propose new bill legalizing e-bikes, scooters

The governor said the new legislation would deliver "justice for e-bike workers" and ensure that alternative transport modes are safe. 

By Kristin Musulin • Updated Jan. 8, 2020

Automation makes it possible for cities to go green

Cities everywhere are embracing their role in the fight against climate change, and many are finding that technology is a powerful ally. 

By Srini Murali • Jan. 2, 2020

Kansas City, MO innovation officer to leave after 8 months on the job

The city's decision to close its innovation office for a new smart city strategy may raise concerns, though former CIO Bob Bennett assures "the sky is not falling."

By Katie Pyzyk • Dec. 23, 2019

Uber, Lyft to end operations at Phoenix airport

The companies say new fees for pick-ups and drop-offs, set to go into effect Feb. 1, will overburden ride-hailing customers and drivers.

By Katie Pyzyk • Dec. 20, 2019

The impact of national ride-hailing regulations: Labor

Ride-hailing companies' reliance on independent contractors could be under threat, though they argue the work model helps drivers retain flexibility.

By Chris Teale • Dec. 19, 2019

The impact of national ride-hailing regulations: Safety

Incidents of sexual assault and violence have brought renewed scrutiny to ride-hailing, which could lead to bolstered background checks or fingerprinting.

By Chris Teale • Dec. 18, 2019

Philadelphia's first 'Pitch & Pilot' seeks tech to reduce waste

The initiative is part of a strategy to improve government services with private sector partnerships and community engagement, rather than a top-down approach. 

By Jason Plautz • Dec. 17, 2019

New Orleans cyberattack has cost city $7.2M

Officials said last week that it could take up to eight months to recover from the December cyberattack, and the costs will likely climb.

By Chris Teale • Updated Jan. 21, 2020

New federal AV legislation under fire for inadequate safety provisions

Multiple sources told Smart Cities Dive the bill's 10-year timeframe to produce national safety guidelines is too long, which could lead to accidents.

By Chris Teale • Dec. 12, 2019

Kansas City, MO to eliminate transit fares

The city, which stands to be the first to adopt zero-fare transit in the U.S., already has a free light rail system, with fare-free buses soon to follow.

By Katie Pyzyk • Dec. 10, 2019

5 cities home to 90% of tech job growth: report

Further concentration would hinder the income growth, job opportunities and economic inclusion of millions, according to a Brookings Institution report. 

By Jason Plautz • Dec. 10, 2019

California governor encourages '100-day challenges' to fight homelessness

Gov. Gavin Newsom said cities can access funding for homeless aid by setting and achieving short-term mitigation goals that could develop sustainable program models.

By Katie Pyzyk • Dec. 9, 2019

Federal climate leadership could cut emissions 49%: report

America's Pledge said cities, states and businesses have led the way on climate action, but further emissions cuts need national leadership, too.

By Chris Teale • Dec. 9, 2019

Airbnb to roll out hotline for mayors, city officials

The hotline is part of Airbnb's "ongoing commitment to work with cities" and increased communication to ensure safety and privacy standards, the company said. 

By Chris Teale • Dec. 9, 2019

Climate Leader of the Year: Calgary, Alberta

Over 100 oil and gas companies reside in the "energy city." Calgary welcomes these energy sources, but it's also driving prosperity with an in-depth Climate Resilience Strategy.

By Kristin Musulin • Dec. 9, 2019

The Smart Cities Dive Awards for 2019

From Sidewalk Labs' disruptive, futuristic smart city to the climate strategy in Calgary, Alberta, these are the leading cities, officials and initiatives of the year.

Dec. 9, 2019

City Leader of the Year: Mayor Jenny Durkan, Seattle

Seattle saw increased leadership from Durkan in 2019 as she took on ride-hailing, encouraged more transit use and added housing stock in the city.

By Chris Teale • Dec. 9, 2019

Disruptor of the Year: Sidewalk Labs

Alphabet-owned Sidewalk Labs is disrupting today's urban pain points with innovative, controversial solutions for its proposed futuristic smart city. 

By Cailin Crowe • Dec. 9, 2019