Smart project to give detailed insights into how Cork city's streets are used 

A NUMBER of organisations in Cork have joined forces to launch a smart street data pilot project, which is expected to provide a detailed picture of street usage and mobility patterns to help inform strategic planning.

The project, being undertaken by the Cork Smart Gateway, Cork City Council, Cork Business Association (CBA) and the VQ, has seen five Telraam S2 sensors installed across four streets in the city centre.

The Telraam device counts, categorises, and reports all activity on the street in real time which includes cars, bikes, pedestrians, buses, trucks, and more.

Those involved in the project say the data generated will provide a detailed picture of street usage and mobility patterns which will help inform strategic planning.

So far, sensors have been installed on Oliver Plunkett Street, MacCurtain Street, Bridge Street, and North Main Street with more streets to be included shortly.

The Cork Smart Gateway, an initiative which seeks to develop and promote Cork as a smart and innovative region is funded by Cork City Council, Cork County Council, and University College Cork and is supported by a wider steering group consisting of Nimbus Technology Gateway, Tyndall National Institute, Tech Industry Alliance, Cork Chamber and Energy Cork.

“Cork city generates significant amounts of data which can be measured to provide detailed insights into how Cork city operates on a daily, weekly and monthly basis,” Sean Lotty of the initiative said.

“Understanding this data will allow for effective planning and data-driven decision making which will help ensure Cork city’s place as a top European location to live, work and invest.”

Ian O’Sullivan of Cork City Council and the Cork Smart Gateway added that one of Cork city’s goal is to be an “internationally recognised city for innovation”.

“One of our digital ambitions is the increased availability and usability of open data and empowering our citizens and business stakeholders to leverage the power of data to help make informed decisions on our city’s development,” he said.

President of the the CBA, Aaron Mansworth, said the pilot project “exemplifies the power of multi-stakeholder partnerships in advancing our smart city ambitions”.

“By harnessing the insights from the Telraam devices, we’re not just counting movements; we’re shaping the future of our streets, paving the way for a vibrant, connected, and sustainable Cork,” he added.

Director of operations for the VQ, Shane Clarke, welcomed the installation of sensors on MacCurtain Street and Bridge Street, which he said should “evidence the increased pedestrian activity and street vibrancy”.