How Memphis is using tech and AI to improve public services
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International Airport handles the second largest volume of air cargo in the world thanks to the presence of FedEx ’ s Global Hub .
Despite the upsides , the city also has its challenges . The average age is five years younger than the US median , which is typical of cities owing to their strong graduate and job prospects . Median household income is about US $ 44,000 , according to the Census Bureau , and the city has one of the nation ’ s highest rates of deprivation with roughly a quarter of residents reported to be living in poverty . It is these challenges that inform and guide the City of Memphis ’ technology strategy .
A diverse but economically divided community One of the things the city is doing to deliver for its most deprived neighbourhoods lies in the provision of digital services in the community . The city extensively provides free Wi-Fi through public libraries and community centres , where residents without broadband at home can go and access the internet .
Officials are also working on expanding the availability of fibre broadband to more locations across the city , allowing homeowners to receive high-quality internet connectivity as and when they desire it . But there is still a long way to go . Pew Research Center notes a persistent ‘ digital divide ’, where the most affluent communities have the greatest access to technologies like smartphones , computers , and broadband internet . Indeed , there is a 36 point difference in broadband penetration between households with an annual income of less than US $ 30,000 and those with an income of more than US $ 100,000 .
120 January 2024