Durham Region named one of the top Smart21 Communities of the Year

Whitby, Ontario – Durham Region has been named one of the top Smart21 Communities of the Year for the second year in a row.

The Intelligent Community Forum (ICF)’s Smart21 Communities program recognizes the world's leading municipalities that are successfully leveraging data and digital assets to develop inclusive and prosperous communities. It’s about using modern technology and innovative thinking to improve economic competitiveness, engage citizens, and increase connectivity to support smarter, healthier, more equitable and sustainable communities.

Through its Intelligent Communities Plan, the Region of Durham is undergoing digital transformation and leading the way in innovation. Notable projects include:

• Being the first regional municipality in Canada to bring Regional services to smart home devices—thanks to the myDurham 311 Smart Home Device Voice Service project.
• Opening the doors for innovative local businesses to pitch new ideas to the Region through the Business Showcase Event.
• Piloting the Whitby Autonomous Shuttle Pilot (WAVE), the first autonomous electric shuttle in North America, using smart infrastructure to support the transit and transportation industries to explore sustainable solutions for our future and address our collective challenges in a smart, connected way.
• Engaging with small business to optimize road maintenance and pothole patching work through artificial intelligence.
• Continuing to build capacity for innovation through programs such as CityStudio Durham, a program that builds partnerships among local post-secondary institutions, municipalities and Durham Regional Police Service.

To learn more about initiatives currently underway in Durham Region, visit durham.ca/IntelligentCommunities. For more information about ICF and the 2022 Smart Communities awards, visit IntelligentCommunity.org.

Quotes 

“Durham Region is leading the way on the world stage. We are eager to capitalize on our legacy as builders in a new economy that features autonomous and electric vehicles, clean technology and innovative service delivery. Being named as one of the top Smart21 Communities of the Year is a wonderful recognition of the important work being done to create the Durham of tomorrow, today.”

- John Henry, Regional Chair and CEO

“Economic growth and a great quality of life in the diverse Region of Durham is supported by strong, responsive, sustainable services provided by Regional government. First-of-their-kind initiatives such as the smart home device project show that we aren’t afraid to try new things to help us learn, grow, and better serve our community. It’s no wonder Durham is growing faster than just about anywhere in Canada.”

- Elaine Baxter-Trahair, Chief Administrative Officer

“The concept of ‘smart cities’ has evolved. Intelligent communities are focused on solving real-world problems, not just the ones that technology can address. We use data and technology to improve service delivery, but it is informed by our residents, businesses and partners. It’s about solving problems that matter to create a more connected, inclusive and sustainable region.”

- Sandra Austin, Director of Strategic Initiatives

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For media requests, please contact CorporateCommunications@durham.ca.