City will attempt to transform the way it operates using the network
Cisco has lined up yet another Smart+Connected community pilot similar to the one struck with Northern Ohio a few months ago. This time, it’s with Holyoke, MA., which will establish programs initially for safety and education.
The programs will put Cisco gear through the paces as an infrastructure for network-driven city services. The ultimate goal is to have the network transform the way Holyoke operates and delivers services to help revitalize its economy and further sustainability efforts. The pilots are being launched in conjunction with the city’s OneHolyoke plan to do just that.
Like Northen Ohio, Holyoke is attempting to transform itself from an industrial region to one based on high tech. With several colleges and universities in the area – Amherst, UMass, Williams, Smith, and others – the talent and skill pool should be there.
Now, if they would only stay after graduation…
Under the safety and security pilot, Cisco is working with the Holyoke police and fire departments on a radio interoperability system for first responders. Holyoke will implement Cisco’s IP Interoperability and Collaboration System – IPICS – for voice, video and data-based dispatching and crime and incident management.
For education, Holyoke will trial Cisco collaboration products for distance learning. Holyoke public schools will offer after-school tutoring and programming for K-8 students via Cisco WebEx so students with common interests and studies can collaboratively discuss the content.
Meanwhile, students enrolled at Holyoke Community College will have remote access to additional locations for joining classes through the city’s downtown transportation center. Students at the center will be able to engage in telepresence “classes” at the uptown college. CareerPoint, a nonprofit workforce and economic development organization, will provide access to the community college curriculum from the transportation center to encourage continuing education among adults.
Following these two pilots, OneHolyoke plans to embark on additional projects that include “smart work centers,” connected healthcare and making government services more efficient and accessible.
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