A sub division of Google, called Sidewalk, has decided to test out a new style of neighborhood right on Toronto’s waterfront. Their smart city approach is comprised of various data driven technology systems aimed to improve the quality of city life. Sidewalk with invest $50-million over the span of a year to develop the 12 acre district of Quayside. The space includes at least 3.3 million square feet of residential, office, and commercial space where a new Google headquarters will reside.
Just Some of the New Technology to Come
Self-Driving Taxis and Buses
Within the proposed neighborhood area, streets would be only occupied by autonomous vehicles – self driving cars and buses as well as robotic freight systems. Private cars will be banned allowing the streets to become pedestrian friendly. The driverless cars would be controlled via a smartphone app similar to Lyft or Uber.
Garbage Disposal Robots
Garbage disposal vehicles would operate through an underground network of utility tunnels, eliminating the eyesore of garbage and boosting efficiency. These vehicles would become fully automated thus reducing the potential for accidents, and allowing them to adhere to a strict schedule.
Modular Buildings
The community plans on implementing a modular construction program and create sections of buildings in a more controlled factory setting before shipping them to the actual construction location. The program would consist of a product library that allows for quick customization – similar to IKEA’s closet customization. The hope is to reduce overall neighborhood cost and reduce construction time.
Modular construction would also allow for remodeling to occur with ease. This would provide an ideal location for many start-up companies. As they grow and develop in size, their office space could follow without the need to fully relocate every so often.
Outcome Based Restrictions
They suggest that using a variety of sensors on different parts of the building to measure temperature, light, sound and structural integrity. This would allow for the elimination of zoning as it exists today. This would also allow for the city to continuously evolve into the most efficient version.
These technologies set the tone for how new communities will be constructed. In a couple of years, this will become standard from neighbourhood to neighbourhood, forever changing the way that we live.
What’s your take on the future of our communities? Let us know down below.
