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Columbus gets a nod as one of the world’s smartest cities
A smart city educates workers and funds economic programs to compete globally. It uses technology to solve problems. Giants such as New York City and Shanghai come to mind first, but the smart cities the Intelligent Community Forum think tank highlights each year are often small and out of the spotlight.
Columbus is one of them, says think tank co-founder Lou Zacharilla.
Recently named to the organization’s annual Smart21 list, Columbus stood out with an unemployment rate below state figures since 2010 and a regional development approach that includes sharing fiber-optic networks. A top library system and AAA municipal bond rating that cuts costs on public projects, including bike paths and parks, didn’t hurt either, Zacharilla says.
The ICF will announce whether Columbus made the top seven during a conference starting Jan. 20 and pick a winner June 7.
What may give our city an advantage?
Columbus has stopped hemorrhaging talented young professionals—reversing a problem that in recent years forced city officials and business leaders to distribute surveys, assemble groups like the Create Columbus Commission and hire outside consultants.
“It’s one of the only metro areas that have gone from loss to gain,” Zacharilla explains.
That’s especially good news for a city already recognized as a top destination for tech jobs, fashion careers and retirement living, says Michael Dalby, Columbus Chamber president and CEO.
“You’d like to say (it’s) some of the effort that was made starting five or more years ago to help smart talent see the opportunities in Columbus,” Dalby says. “You’ve got to keep making your city where those smart professionals want to be and feel comfortable.” t John Ross
