The US city of Charlotte in North Carolina has entered into a three-year agreement with 2214 Microsoft to launch a smart city initiative.
The city says it will use Microsoft technologies to improve city services with the aim of establishing a regional centre of excellence in Internet of Things, with a commitment to regional smart city start-ups.
Both parties will carry out pilot programmes focused on improving mobility for residents, smart transit systems, public Wi-Fi connectivity, public safety infrastructure and safer neighbourhoods.
As part of the deal, Microsoft is to offer technology training for various volunteer initiatives throughout the city.
Charlotte city manager Marcus D. Jones says: "Inspiring innovation and applying data science to make better decisions makes resident quality of life better.”
