Mississauga continues to be a leader in innovation
Building a city for the future means building a city for everybody, and the City of Mississauga has developed a Smart City Master Plan (2019) to do just that. Since its endorsement, great progress has been made to help residents and businesses thrive using technology. This year, the City introduced several Smart City initiatives to enhance quality of life, reduce the city’s digital divide and help make Mississauga an inclusive, accessible city for all.
Access to free Wi-Fi
An additional 200 outdoor hotspots were enabled across the city in April. This allows all residents to access online resources and stay connected with their community.
Computer access for youth
The City donated 100 gently used Cityowned laptops each to the Dufferin- Peel Catholic District School Board and the Peel District School Board in September to support youth who do not have access to computers. Through this partnership with the school boards, donations will take place on a yearly basis. The City is also working on expanding its laptop lending program through the Library to further reduce the city’s digital divide.
Redesigned City Website
The City’s new website has been redesigned to be inclusive and accessible for people of all abilities and supports the use of assistive technology. By visiting Mississauga.ca, residents have access to improved online services and the information and resources that they need to stay connected and informed.
Engaging Youth at the Smart City Open Data Challenge
In October youth will participate in the City’s first online Open Data Challenge event. Here they will learn from industry leaders and develop ideas that use data and technology to assist the City. Participating youth will be given opportunities to learn, expand their professional networks and demonstrate their skills and leadership abilities.
Smart City technology will help build the city of the future. It is already being integrated into the design of the Brightwater and Lakeview Village Communities to establish these areas as leaders in Smart City innovation. It will also be used to launch a new innovative digital ecosystem. This digital ecosystem will highlight Mississauga as a forerunner in the use of technology to support the economy by providing business-to-business opportunities for collaboration.
As the Smart City Master Plan moves forward, residents and businesses will continue to have opportunities to thrive, and the City’s goal of a Smart City for everyone will be realized.
For more information, visit smartcity.mississauga.ca.
