Last week, representatives from the Smart Columbus program unveiled plans to open the Smart Columbus Experience Center along the Scioto Mile this summer, showcasing the program’s tech-centric transportation initiatives.
“Our future is going to be big in ways that have yet to be imagined,” stated Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther. “Technology and innovation in transportation will grow our economy and put our people on ladders of opportunity toward a better life.”
The new 3,000 square foot showroom at 170 Civic Center Drive will be open to the public six days per week, and serve as a place where residents can view how the various programs will work, test drive new vehicles, and can sign up to be involved in other participatory programs. Over the past year, nearly 1,500 residents have already participated in a mobile version of the program.
In addition to public showroom, the center will also house workspace, conference rooms and a small event space. The full cost of the project is estimated at $1 million, which will be paid for by a portion of a $10 million grant from Paul G. Allen Philanthropies, which was awarded to Columbus as a part of the Smart City Challenge. Additional funding is being sought from the State of Ohio Capital Bill.
“Columbus is attracting global attention as one of the world’s smartest cities, thanks to our win of the Smart City Challenge and the commitments and innovations of our local public and private sector,” stated Alex Fischer, President and CEO of the Columbus Partnership. “By creating the world’s first smart city experience center, we’ll create a global stage to showcase our city’s mobility transformation.”
The Smart Columbus Experience Center is stated to open in June 2018.
For more information, visit www.columbus.gov/smartcolumbus/.
Related:
- What to Expect from Smart Columbus in Year Two
- New Transit Startup Coming to Columbus
- Self-Driving Shuttle Bus Shows up on Campus & OSU is Looking to Buy One
- Chicago to Columbus: Hyperloop and High Speed Rail Options to be Studied
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