The Jurong Lake District will help to lead the way in Singapore’s efforts to become a smarter business city in the way it delivers municipal services, engages citizens and optimises use of resources.
It has been selected as a recipient of the IBM Smarter Cities Challenge grant for 2012.
Launched in 2011, the Smarter Cities Challenge is a three-year philanthropic initiative, covering 100 cities and costing US$50 million.
It funds engagements by teams of top IBM experts, who study and then make detailed recommendations on important local urban issues.
With the grant, the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), Economic Development Board (EDB) and their partner agencies will work with a team of IBM experts.
They’ll explore innovative solutions to enhance Jurong Lake District as a smart, sustainable and connected high-density district.
Jurong Lake District, a 360ha mixed-use district in western Singapore, is intended to support the city’s economic growth for the next 10 to 15 years.
It’ll be the largest commercial node and regional centre outside the central business district.
Jurong Lake District will use resources more efficiently, optimise land and enhance the quality of life for its workers, residents and visitors.
The URA, EDB and IBM said in a joint media release on Friday that Jurong Lake District was selected based on Singapore’s ability to clearly articulate strategic issues with tangible impact on the lives of citizens, which can potentially and reasonably be acted upon.
Also considered is Singapore’s track record of innovative problem-solving, as well as its commitment to the use of technology and open data.
Source : Channel NewsAsia – 23 Mar 2012