Laura Michell
A network of sensors is being installed across Whittlesea to track how people are using public spaces, air quality and waste volumes.
Whittlesea council is leading a multi-council Smart Cities pilot program which collects anonymous data to improve how public spaces are managed.
The project is funded through the federal government’s Smart Cities and Suburbs Program and is being delivered in partnership with La Trobe University, RMIT University and Banyule, Mitchell, Moreland and Nillumbik councils.
Five types of sensors have been installed in Whittlesea. Trackers have been placed on council vehicles such as drain cleaners, street sweepers, trailers, trucks and tippers to monitor usage, while 62 bin sensors have been installed in 35 parks to better manage waste collection. Eight air quality sensors will monitor air quality and environmental factors and five water level monitoring sensors will collect flood data.
The council will also use 21 people counting sensors across three town centres to measure pedestrian activity and the health of town centres.
Mayor Emilia Lisa Sterjova said the pilot will run until June.
“The Smart Cities program will enable us to be efficient and responsible in the way we manage public buildings and outdoor spaces,” she said.
“These important insights we gain through the pilot program will help up to improve our services to the community and make improvements in the way we operate.”
Laura Michell
