Smart City Technology | 2023-today

The Trust Collaboratory assists engineers, data scientists, and urban planners at Columbia’s Center for Smart Streetscapes (CS3) in studying the social dynamics around smart cities. We leverage interdisciplinary methodologies, including participatory research and community-driven assessments, to ensure that emerging streetscape applications align with the interests and priorities of local communities, particularly in the CS3 testbeds of Harlem (NYC), New Brunswick (New Jersey), and West Palm Beach (Florida). This work involves collaborations with local stakeholders to assess needs, navigate tradeoffs, and co-design solutions that prioritize the perspectives of neighborhood communities. At the core of this work is the study and practice of trust. This collaboration underscores our commitment as a research center to responsible and ethical technology development that builds and sustains public trust in the digital transformation of urban life.