Kansas City lost out to Columbus, Ohio, in a bid to become the first Smart City, but it’ll still get help from the U.S. Department of Transportation to turn its ideas into reality.
On Tuesday, as Columbus media reported their city won the $50 million challenge, the DOT said it would back all seven finalists as they build better-connected cities.
“There has been a remarkable spirit of cooperation as these cities moved through the competition, and working together with our partners, we are excited to help empower all seven finalists to move forward in creating smart cities,” U.S. Transportation Sec. Anthony Foxx said in a statement.
Earlier this month, Mayor Sly James pitched autonomous electric connected vehicles and mobile learning centers as part of Kansas City’s plan. Already, interactive kiosks line the streetcar route.
WATCH: Kansas City makes its pitch for $50 million in DOT funding to build the first Smart City.
Elle Moxley is a reporter for KCUR. You can reach her on Twitter @ellemoxley.
