This is a guest post by Lucía Bellocchio, founder and executive director of Trend Smart Cities. Lucía has extensive experience working on urban innovation, and has written in leading media outlets in South America like La Nación, El Observador, Clarín or TN.
When the topic of Smart Cities is broached on an international scale, the conversation often revolves around the major country capitals. However, in Argentina, it’s imperative to shift the focus beyond the capital and acknowledge the unique and innovative smart city model being developed in Córdoba. As the second largest city in the country, Córdoba is diligently transforming its traditional management into a smart city model that stands out for its unique features.
Located in the heart of Argentina, Córdoba has launched a series of initiatives that enhance the quality of life for its residents and promote sustainable development, marking substantial progress toward urban intelligence.
Public Policies and Citizen Participation. Córdoba has created the “Fondo Córdoba Ciudad Inteligente,” the first GovTech fund in Latin America to promote investment in high-impact innovative ventures. This initiative benefits society, the environment, and the economy, improving public services and government management. The goal of encouraging startups and tech companies to collaborate with the local Government is to create an ecosystem that fosters efficiency and transparency.
Digital platforms are another key component in this transformation. Through apps and websites, citizens can report issues, suggest improvements, and access information about municipal services. Among these tools, “Vecino Digital” (VeDi) stands out, providing easy and simple access to the procedures and services of the Córdoba City Government.
The Secretariat of Smart City and Digital Transformation plays a crucial role in this migration toward evidence-based management, utilising various technologies present in the urban fabric.
Smart and Sustainable Mobility.- Mobility is another fundamental aspect of Córdoba’s strategy. The “Observatorio de Movilidad” -Mobility Observatory- centralises information on public transport, using technological innovation to respond immediately to traffic incidents, thus improving the safety and predictability of the service. The “Tu Bondi” app allows Córdoba residents to check travel schedules and know the real-time location of buses.
The Traffic Control Center also manages traffic on the city’s main avenues, using a video wall with multiple monitors to visualise the functioning cameras. The SEMM App facilitates the management of municipal metered parking, enhancing user experience.
Since 2023, Córdoba has featured an elevated bike lane, unique in Latin America. This lane connects key points in the city and reduces vehicular congestion. With nearly 1,700 meters of extension and over 3,000 LED lights, this project improves mobility and provides a safe space for cyclists and pedestrians.
Commitment to the Environment and Quality Public Spaces. In recent years, Córdoba has reclaimed over 1,500 green spaces through intensive landscaping and afforestation efforts, turning squares and parks into green lungs that encourage recreation and community interaction. “Parque de las Heroínas de Ayohuma”, where there was once a giant landfill, is a clear example of this transformation.
“Parque de las Energías”- Energies Park- stands out for its intelligent public space design, including recreational equipment, photovoltaic panels, wind microgenerators, solar heaters, and various amenities for citizens’ enjoyment. Additionally, the Institute for Energy Transition aims to be a research hub in energy efficiency, crucial for combating climate change.
A City that Thinks Globally and Acts Locally.- Córdoba has implemented the concept of “superblocks,” an urban strategy that reduces vehicular traffic to prioritise pedestrian space and social interaction. This trend, originating in Barcelona, transforms streets into safer, healthier pedestrian spaces.
The “Universidad Libre del Ambiente,” inspired by an idea from Curitiba (Brazil) promotes environmental education and citizen participation, consolidating Córdoba’s vision of integrating international practices into its local development.
Córdoba, a Beacon for Other Cities.- Córdoba positions itself as an example in the region through all these initiatives. The collaboration between the Municipality, the Provincial Government, academia, and the private sector, along with an entrepreneurial environment and strong political commitment, paves the way for digital, sustainable, and human transformation.
All eyes are on Córdoba, which has become a beacon for other cities in Argentina and the region, leading smart urban vision and management.
