Mind Power, Swede!: Chicago Among Smartest Cities In North America
By Chuck Sudo in News on Dec 4, 2012 5:41PM
The website Fastcoexist.com ranks the 10 smartest cities in North America and Chicago placed eighth on the list.
Fastcoexist’s Boyd Cohen used a device he developed called the "Smart Cities Wheel" and various data sources to make his rankings. For Chicago’s ranking Cohen cited the initial steps taken by former Mayor Richard M. Daley—particularly his commitment to greening the city—and the introduction of the Chicago Open Data Portal under Mayor Rahm Emanuel.
Cohen also noted the Chicago Digital Excellence Smart Communities Program, which aims to bridge the digital divide for elderly and low income residents, as a factor in Chicago’s ranking.