Internet connectivity, at its core, is a civilization changer on the same level as roadways, water systems and electric grids. It is redefining the way people interact with the world, access and share information, and improving the way we live work and play. It’s a universal, global need that supersedes economic status, language and location. Having a global connectivity infrastructure provides the real potential to transform civilization forever.

This quote, taken from the Connected City Advisory Board (CCAB)’s literature, is an excellent summary of the ways in which bringing connectivity to citizens on a global level is as important as it is. For the last few years, the Wireless Broadband Alliance has used its many platforms (including the CCAB, World Wi-Fi Day, and bi-annual Wireless Global Congress events, to name a few) to draw attention to the significance of Connected Cities to the overall wireless ecosystem.

With that being said, it’s crucial to understand that Connected Cities are equally as important to their citizens and visitors. While the connecting of ‘things’ and services is a major part of their success, it is truly the ‘connecting’ of people that makes them invaluable on the global stage. This is especially true when looking at a UN report that states the overall growth of the world’s population could add another 2.5 billion people to urban populations by 2050. Connecting people will go a long way towards strengthening a city’s (and country’s) social and economic health.

Our upcoming Congress in New York City (13-16 November) will include both a dedicated Conference Track and Workshop focusing on Connected Cities. It’s fitting, too, that our event is taking place in New York City, which over the last couple of years has become a shining example of a Connected City with the launch of its LinkNYC initiative.

Interview with Al Jenkins, Deputy Commissioner of Telecom Planning, New York City, on LinkNYC

Here’s a quick breakdown of what attendees can expect to hear about regarding Connected Cities in NYC:

Wednesday, 15 November – Connected Cities Conference Track

Broadband Planning
Speakers to include: Joshua Breitbart, Special Advisor for Broadband in the Office of the NYC Mayor, and Christopher Fisher, Managing Partner at Cuddy & Feder (with more to be announced)

City Real Estate Management (Telecoms)
Speakers to include: Alphonso Jenkins, Deputy Commissioner for Telecommunications Planning for NYC, and Vijay Sammeta, CEO at Civic Foundry, LLC (with more to be announced)

City Wi-Fi Opportunities
Speakers to include: Mark Carter, CTO at BSG Wireless, and Tiago Rodrigues, Senior Director at WBA (with more to be announced)

Thursday, 16 November – Connected City Workshop

Topics to include: Best Practices for City Wi-Fi, Role of Wireless Technologies in Backhaul, and the Role of IoT in Connected City Strategy. (Lineup of speakers to be announced)

In addition to the Conference Programme, the Congress will be attended by many delegates and city planners from some of the finest Connected Cities from around the world, including Singapore, San Jose, and of course, New York City itself.

Do you work for a city that is still trying to launch or finalize its plan for connectivity? If so, we urge you to visit the Connected City Advisory Board website and download your free PDF copy of the Connected City Blueprint. And if you’re interested in getting more information in joining the CCAB, along with dozens of other like-minded cities, click here.