Riverside Among Top-Ranked Cities in the Nation in 2013 Digital Cities Survey

Judges recognize Riverside’s leadership in information and communications technology

RIVERSIDE, Calif. – The City of Riverside’s efforts to make government more transparent and accessible to residents through the improved use of technology has been recognized with a top-tier finish in the 2013 Digital Cities Survey.

Riverside garnered a third-place finish among the top 20 cities of its size that were recognized in the annual awards, which showcase best practices in public-sector information and communications technology. Among cities like Riverside with 250,000 or more residents, Boston finished first.

“Riverside’s high ranking puts it in very good company and is a testament to the vision and hard work of our entire team,” said Lea Deesing, Chief Innovation Officer for the City of Riverside. “Technology can build a bridge between government and the citizenry, and we are working to make that happen in Riverside.”

The awards are presented by the Center for Digital Government, a division of e.Republic, and the Digital Communities Program. Top-ranked cities in other categories included Irving, Texas; Avondale, Ariz.; and Palo Alto.

“Nationally the number of tech-savvy digital cities is increasing, particularly among the larger jurisdictions responding to the survey,” said Todd Sander, Executive Director of the Center for Digital Government. “The top digital cities are leaders in open data and transparency efforts, as well as innovators in deploying mobile applications to citizens while conforming to fiscal standards.”

In its 13th year, the annual survey focused on results achieved by cities—via the use of technology — in operating efficiencies, realizing strategic objectives, innovative or creative solutions or approaches, effective collaboration and transparency measures, among others.

More information can be found at: http://www.digitalcommunities.com/survey/cities/?year=2013