NTT DATA has been chosen by the City of Brownsville, Texas, to implement its smart solutions and Private 5G (P5G) wireless connectivity. This initiative aims to enhance citizen services, bolster public safety, promote sustainability, and manage the city’s growth through real-time data analytics and AI, all supported by a secure and seamless wireless network.
“The future is coming to life in Brownsville today as we partner with NTT DATA to set a new standard for smart, connected and sustainable cities,” said John Cowen, Jr., Brownsville City Mayor. “Ultimately, we’re seeking to reinvent human-to-digital interactions in ways that deliver amazing citizen services and an outstanding quality of life.”
“The partnership between the City of Brownsville and NTT DATA to implement a Private 5G network is a crucial step towards transforming our city into a technology hub,” added Helen Ramirez, ICMA-CM, AICP, Brownsville City Manager. “This advanced infrastructure will enhance connectivity for our residents and businesses, while resolving pain points for the city. It will attract new opportunities and innovations to Brownsville.”
Brownsville is experiencing rapid growth, spurred by its high quality of life, proximity to the SpaceX Starbase complex, the Texas LNG export facility, the Port of Brownsville, and Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport. The introduction of advanced digital infrastructure and secure wireless connectivity will support the city’s development, benefiting both citizens and businesses while shaping sustainable future growth.
“As Brownsville continues to emerge as a leading tech hub, the implementation of a Private 5G network is not just beneficial—it’s essential,” emphasised Jorge Cardenas, Chief Information Officer, Brownsville. “This advanced network infrastructure will enable faster connectivity and support innovative technologies. By investing in Private 5G, we’re ensuring that Brownsville remains at the forefront of technological advancement and economic development.”
“Brownsville’s leaders have demonstrated a remarkable vision for using data-driven insights to improve the citizen experience and lay the foundation for a sustainable future,” said Eric Clark, Chief Executive Officer, NTT DATA North America. “The combination of predictive AI, real-time analytics, P5G and edge devices is a game changer for communities and industries seeking digital transformation. We look forward to partnering with the city on further innovations that create a bright and prosperous future.”
The initial phase of NTT DATA’s fully managed solutions will focus on the city’s downtown area, including four public parks, the Department of Public Works Yard, and the airport. The first use cases will include:
- Smart infrastructure: NTT DATA will deploy IoT devices across the city, using both new and existing data collection tools
- Connected city: The phased deployment of a P5G network will provide blanket coverage, supporting IoT devices and high-bandwidth applications throughout Brownsville
- Public safety and security: Smart solutions will deliver real-time data analysis and recommendations, enabling city officials to monitor public spaces and manage safety concerns efficiently
The introduction of a Private 5G network is a major advancement for public safety and security in key community areas. With P5G coverage installed at Dean Porter Park, Linear Park, St. Charles Park, and the Downtown Recreational Centre, Brownsville will implement a smart park strategy to monitor occupancy levels, streamline crowd management, and improve safety for all residents and visitors.
NTT DATA’s Smart Solutions will gather actionable insights from a range of city assets, including computer vision, wireless access points, and sensors detecting optical, audio, and motion data. By employing machine learning and AI analytics, the system will help city officials manage a variety of challenges and progress towards the broader objective of establishing a Smart and Connected City.
Furthermore, NTT DATA will build and oversee a turnkey Private 5G network, ensuring seamless connectivity across the city to support Smart Solutions. This high-speed, high-bandwidth, low-latency network will deliver rapid data processing at the edge. By utilising this private network, Brownsville will also avoid traditional data charges from wireless carriers and benefit from a flexible, scalable solution that can adapt to future demand and use cases.
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