Every year since 2018, APWA holds an annual contest to determine the Top Trending Technologies in Public Works for the upcoming year.
APWA’s Technical Committees, Standing Committees, and the Council of Chapters all give input and suggestions with the top 16 technologies ultimately selected. Then the voting begins. Technologies battle it out until the ultimate victors are chosen. After two rounds and 4,590 total votes across 915 bracket entries, the winners for 2024 are:
- Artificial Intelligence—Condition Assessment Data Collection
AI in condition assessment data collection automates and optimizes the gathering of infrastructure asset condition data. Leveraging AI algorithms and machine learning improves efficiency, accuracy, and analysis capabilities.
- Availability of Centralized Community GIS/Mapping Data
Centralized community GIS/mapping data refers to consolidating geographic information system (GIS) and mapping data in a centralized repository accessible to the community.
- Lead Service Line Identification
Lead service line identification refers to the process of determining whether a building or property has a lead service line, which is the pipe that connects the water main to the building's plumbing system.
- Microgrids
Microgrids are localized energy systems that operate independently or in conjunction with the main power grid, consisting of distributed energy resources and smart grid technologies. Microgrids offer increased grid stability, reduced carbon footprint, and the ability to provide localized power in emergencies.
- Sustainability Due to Severe Events—Improving Transportation Infrastructure
Sustainability in improving transportation infrastructure refers to incorporating resilient and environmentally-friendly practices and technologies into the design, construction, and operation of transportation systems to mitigate the impacts of severe events.
All these were chosen because they are either rapidly developing technologies, or they are being used in new and innovative ways. Continue reading to learn more about the five Top Trending Technologies selected by this year’s voters. Throughout 2024, APWA’s educational offerings will take deeper dives into each of these technologies to offer timely and relevant ideas and best practices that can be applied to public works operations going forward.
Read the full article from the APWA Reporter