#ThisWeekInData September 22, 2023

• September 22, 2023
• Civic Data

Huff Post: The Biden Administration Is Making It Easier To Get Government Benefits 

This article focuses on the Biden Administration's data-driven efforts to modernize and digitize government benefit programs, making it simpler for eligible individuals to apply for and receive assistance — aka reducing the “time tax.” Initiatives like improving online application platforms and reducing paperwork improves access to vital government services for millions of Americans.

The New York Times: How to Cool Down a City

This interactive, visual piece on Singapore’s heat reduction methods delves into urban heat mitigation strategies, such as planting more trees, installing cool roofs, and redesigning urban landscapes.

Harvard Kennedy School: Pushing cities and the technology community to think about how to help solve public problems 

In this Q&A with Anthony Foxx, the new Harvard professor and former secretary of transportation discusses fostering collaborations between cities and the tech industry to address public challenges. He discusses specific programs and initiatives that encourage innovative problem-solving and the development of practical solutions for urban issues, while looking ahead at what he wants to accomplish at the Kennedy School.

American City and County: Artificial intelligence for cities and counties 

This article offers insights into the practical applications of AI in local government, based on data from a national survey of cities and counties. It details how AI is being used for tasks like traffic management, predictive maintenance, and data analysis, leading to improved efficiency and enhanced public services in municipalities and counties.