OH HCR35

USDOT announced the Smart City Challenge on December 7, 2015, as a competitive grant program for mid-sized cities to demonstrate advanced transportation technologies and data systems.

Columbus was selected as one of seven finalists from 78 applicants eligible to receive funding for capital improvements and operations to reduce congestion, improve safety, protect the environment, address climate change, serve underserved communities, and support economic development.

The winning city will receive a $40 million USDOT grant, a potential additional $10 million from Paul Allen's Vulcan, and tens of millions in in-kind contributions from Alphabet's Sidewalk Labs, Amazon Web Services, Autodesk, MobileEye, and NXP.

The Ohio House and Senate urge USDOT to select Columbus as the Smart City Challenge winner based on its ability to create a 21st century transportation system serving as a model for other cities nationwide.

The House Clerk must transmit authenticated copies of the resolution to the U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary, Ohio's Congressional delegation, Columbus's Mayor, and Ohio news media.