Tech program will explore new approaches to resolving local challenges
LEXINGTON, Ky. (Oct. 15, 2013) — Lexington is one of 10 local governments nationwide chosen to be part of the 2014 Code for America program, where innovative local governments team with civic-minded technology experts to improve government service.
“This project is all about continuous improvement. Setting the bar high,” said Mayor Jim Gray. “That’s what Lexington is all about. Getting up every morning and thinking, ‘How can we improve today what we did yesterday.’ Citizens of university cities like Lexington want a high quality of life, and Code for America helps raise the bar through innovative solutions and improved services.”
Today, at the Code for America Summit in San Francisco, Code for America announced the winning governments, along with the 31 Fellows who will work with them.
“Each of these 10 governments has a remarkable commitment to innovation and is supported by forward-thinking and dedicated staff,” said Code for America Co-Executive Director Bob Sofman. “This top-notch combination of Fellows and governments ensures a productive year and long-lasting partnerships.”
Working with the governments, the Fellows will explore new approaches to resolving local challenges by building computer applications to engage the community and collaborate with other local governments. Over the past three years, the Fellowship program has produced more than 75 web apps in collaboration with 20 municipal governments.
Each year-long Fellowship project costs $360,000, which is funded through a combination of local government resources and community matching grants and donations from a number of foundations, companies, and individuals. Lexington’s fellowship includes $180,000 in private funding.
“Twenty plus corporations and community members have pulled together to support this project (Lexington) and our collaboration. This is more than Code for America has ever before experienced in the history of the Fellowship program,” said Luke Norris, director of government relations for Code for America.
The 10 governments for the 2014 program were selected from a pool of 50 applicants. In addition to Lexington the governments are: Atlanta; Charlotte, N.C.; Chattanooga, Tenn.; Denver; Long Beach, Calif.; Mesa, Ariz.; State of Rhode Island in partnership with the City of Warwick, R.I.; San Antonio; and San Juan, Puerto Rico. Details on each government project are available here.
Code for America is a nonprofit organization. For more information, watch Founder Jennifer Pahlka’s TED talk or visit codeforamerica.org.
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