2024 HBCU Smart Cities Challenge Winners
The HBCU Smart Cities Challenge brought together seven teams of students from six North Carolina HBCUs and four participating cities, including the city of Rocky Mount, the town of Morrisville, the city of Winston-Salem, and the city of Charlotte.
This collaborative initiative aimed to address pressing urban challenges through innovative solutions and student-led creativity.
Pitch Competition:
During the pitch competition, teams focused on problem areas such as public transportation, public safety, and water management. Their proposals showcased thoughtful analysis and innovative approaches to tackle these complex issues, leveraging technology and data-driven insights.
The Winning Teams:
3rd Place: Smart Morrisville Traffic Analytics
Team Members: Jayden Jones and Abiodun Taiwo from North Carolina A&T, Tanaka Mbavarira from Johnson C. Smith University.
Problem: Traffic congestion in the Town of Morrisville.
Solution: Real-time traffic analytics platform and digital signage for route optimization.
Description: The Smart Morrisville Traffic Analytics team addressed the persistent issue of traffic congestion in Morrisville by leveraging data analytics and digital signage technology. Their innovative solution provides real-time insights into traffic patterns and suggests optimized routes to alleviate congestion. By enabling city officials to make data-driven decisions, the team's platform aims to improve traffic flow, enhance commuter experiences, and ultimately reduce congestion-related issues in Morrisville.
2nd Place: Milestones
Team Members: Uche Chukwuezi from Fayetteville State University, Jennifer Metume-Ibe, and Brianna Odom from North Carolina A&T.
Problem: Youth involvement in gun violence for the City of Rock Mount.
Solution: Reward-based web application to engage and uplift young minority males.
Description: The Milestones team addressed the pressing issue of youth involvement in violent incidents by developing a reward-based web application. Their innovative approach focuses on engaging young minority males from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, offering pathways to success and higher-paying jobs. By providing opportunities for skill development, mentorship, and career advancement, the team's web application aims to empower youth and foster a more positive and resilient community.
1st Place: The Big Switch
Team Members: Zoe Migioni from Johnson C. Smith University, Evan Jones and De'Vonte Fraizer from Elizabeth City State University, Karly Heavens Gerome from St. Augustine’s University.
Problem: Outdated water metering infrastructure in the City of Rocky Mount.
Solution: Advanced metering infrastructure for real-time data and reduced water loss.
Description: The Big Switch team tackled the challenge of outdated water metering infrastructure in Rocky Mount by proposing an advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) solution. Their innovative approach involves implementing real-time data collection and analysis capabilities, enabling the city to monitor water usage more efficiently and reduce water loss. By upgrading the metering infrastructure, the team's solution aims to enhance operational efficiency, optimize resource management, and promote sustainable water usage practices in Rocky Mount.
These winning teams exemplify the innovative spirit and problem-solving prowess of HBCU students. Their solutions not only address immediate urban challenges but also pave the way for sustainable and equitable city development.
Congratulations to all participants for their dedication and ingenuity in driving positive change through the HBCU Smart Cities Challenge!
