FrequentlyAskedQuestions

How can I get involved with Smart Columbus?
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If you’d like to play a role in creating a more connected, sustainable Columbus, tell us more about your interests by filling out this contact form. In addition, by signing up for our newsletter, you’ll learn about pilot projects to participate in, events to attend and you’ll get the latest news from Smart Columbus and learn about other exciting, emerging projects happening in the community.

How was the 2016 US DOT Smart Cities Challenge grant used? What were the outcomes?
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Selected as the sole winner over 78 other cities, Columbus received a grant from the US Department of Transportation for $40 million in 2016, as well as an additional $10 million from the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation. The funding was used to execute demonstration projects designed to create a more connected, safer and sustainable city that included:

  1. Smart Columbus Operating System
  2. Connected Vehicle Environment
  3. Multimodal Trip Planning Application
  4. Mobility Assistance for People with Cognitive Disabilities
  5. Prenatal Trip Assistance
  6. Smart Mobility Hubs
  7. Event Parking Management
  8. Connected Electric Autonomous Vehicles

While some programs proved to be more successful than others, overall, the projects continue to pay dividends. Traffic congestion has been reduced in areas. Columbus has adopted electric vehicles at a rate far above other Midwestern cities. Our data sharing has improved greatly. Emergency response times have been shortened. And perhaps most importantly, Columbus has taken a giant step forward on our path to becoming a smarter city of the future.

Read our final grant report.

Where can I find more information about electric vehicle incentives?
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Electric Vehicle and electric charging infrastructure incentives are changing all the time. Get the latest information and see what incentives you might qualify for.

Where can I report an issue with a public charging station?
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Often the most effective way to report an issue with a charger is through the charging station’s app or by calling the number often found on the charging station itself.

What is a Ride & Drive and how can I set one up for my organization?
Show What is a Ride & Drive and how can I set one up for my organization? Details

Ride & Drive events are a chance for people in your organization to test drive electric vehicles. Each event features a wide collection of vehicles all at a variety of price points, along with our trained Ride & Drive experts to answer any questions. To schedule a Ride & Drive event, you must first become an Acceleration Partner. Learn more about our Acceleration Partner program.